Jean Paul Riopelle, “Polyvalencia”, oil on canvas, 16 x 12.75 ins, Estimated: $100,000-200,000, Spring Live Auction of Important Canadian Art (June 15th)
I am drawn in by Riopelle’s thick paint application that creates a tactile surface, tempting the viewer (me) to touch it!
The palette knife strokes are a mix of order and spontaneity. “Polyvalencia” dates to a key period in the artist’s life – just as he was moving away from his structured “mosaic” compositions to more linear ones; this transition is apparent in the expressive painting.
I also find it noteworthy that during the time Riopelle completed “Polyvalencia” in 1961, he had recently started his romantic relationship with Joan Mitchell – the two shared an apartment in Paris, travelled throughout Europe, and influenced each other’s rapidly evolving work.
Katherine Meredith, Montreal Representative & Art Specialist. Contact Katherine at [email protected].
