The Unsung Hero

Still Life with Plum Pits, 1932

The French Window, 1932

When the first day of Spring comes, I feel giddy. My heart is awakened after its long winter nap, and its ready to go play. I get antsy for sun, fresh air, and freedom. Unfortunately, according to AccuWeather, and the general numbness I feel when I step outside, I'm pretty sure the weather is still frigid outside. So if the sun won't come to me, I'll go it. Or, at least to see cheerful Bonnard at the Met.

I like Bonnard because he never comes to mind right away. So when a painting appears by him, or someone mentions him, I'm fondly reminded of the Modernist painter, the quiet hero whose radiating light can still be blinded by the Impressionists.

Bonnard is a painter of joie de vivre. His colors are bright, as if the sun is always shining on his work. Bonnard is a must-see even if your only reason is the need to brighten your spirits.

I think what I love most about his paintings is the fact that they are the perfect size. To view every detail, you must walk up close, as if to hear a secret. They are just the right size that you can hug it and make it yours. You can envelope it and let the colors permeate your skin, veins, heart. Happiness through osmosis, perhaps? But alas, you cannot grab the paintings, in fact, I advise you not to. But as you look at them, your heart will jolt because your eyes are moving so fast around the canvas that you don't know where to look first.

I enjoyed some of his drawings best. "A Table Set for a Meal" from 1935 is just so small and perfect, that it looks like a play set. But don't be deceived. At a closer glance, you will see that it was created by the hand of a master.

Also, don't forget to see his daybooks. If our minds could print their daily activity, they would look like Bonnard's little daybooks.

So if you're feeling the seasonal depression sink in, soak up some Bonnard to last you until spring.