Haven van Palma

Description

In the 1930s Wim Schuhmacher travelled extensively throughout Europe. He visited the Spanish island of Mallorca several times and consequently he will have seen Palma de Mallorca’s port. He gives an impression of this in the way characteristic of his work. His use of a sober colour palette and light make it difficult to ascertain the time of day. He paints a light spot in the middle of the sky, which could indicate a hazy sun or moon. There are few shadows to be seen. The absence of living beings and even plants or trees reinforces the tranquil, surreal atmosphere. Although Schuhmacher based his paintings on a motif from real life, he sought ‘something higher, something exalted’. The church steeple in the background and the triangular sails or fishing nets of the boats all point upwards towards the light area in the sky. ,In the time between the two world wars, several artists sought contemplation or stillness by creating works that were painted in a realistic style, while giving the impression of being surreal. This trend is referred to with terms such as magical realism, imaginary realism or neorealism.

[2020]

Does this page contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? We would like to hear from you.