Remember, Remember
Went to the de Young today without having purchased a ticket in advance and got into the Post-Impressionist exhibit without incident, after I saw the permanent collection. I forgot they had three Diebenkorns, and I didn't remember at all encountering Nicholas Oliveira's "Walking Mime," which is just marvelous! (Can't find an image online that isn't all rights reserved, so go here.) I love that period.
The Post-Impressionism exhibit was nice, though overstuffed with paintings and people - turns out it was member appreciation day. They were all very accommodating of each other's (and my!) need to stand and stare at a painting, but just too many people! I kept thinking cynical thoughts about mousepads and then chastising myself for being uncharitable.
I had a very strong reaction when I got into the Van Gogh room - *immediately* verklempt. First thing I saw was Starry Night over the Rhone, over a sea of heads. Had to stuff my sweater sleeve into my mouth to keep from crying. Weird! Went into the next room and stared at Emile Bernard's "Madeleine au Bois d'Amour" until I was sure I wouldn't sob on anyone.
Madeleine in the Wood Between The Worlds
Went back, started welling up again. On reflection, I think I was remembering that ridiculous episode of Doctor Who - would you believe it. I am really susceptible to sentimentalism! [NB: don't get me wrong, it's a wonderful episode for Dr. ?, but still, to get hit with the emotion like a friggin sledgehammer in public, ah, well. I have a very low threshhold apparently!]
The Post-Impressionism exhibit was nice, though overstuffed with paintings and people - turns out it was member appreciation day. They were all very accommodating of each other's (and my!) need to stand and stare at a painting, but just too many people! I kept thinking cynical thoughts about mousepads and then chastising myself for being uncharitable.
I had a very strong reaction when I got into the Van Gogh room - *immediately* verklempt. First thing I saw was Starry Night over the Rhone, over a sea of heads. Had to stuff my sweater sleeve into my mouth to keep from crying. Weird! Went into the next room and stared at Emile Bernard's "Madeleine au Bois d'Amour" until I was sure I wouldn't sob on anyone.
Madeleine in the Wood Between The Worlds
Went back, started welling up again. On reflection, I think I was remembering that ridiculous episode of Doctor Who - would you believe it. I am really susceptible to sentimentalism! [NB: don't get me wrong, it's a wonderful episode for Dr. ?, but still, to get hit with the emotion like a friggin sledgehammer in public, ah, well. I have a very low threshhold apparently!]