Espagne II

In this painting, the composition consists of areas of color in rather muted shades, with a predomination of dull, warm reds. It appears to be a spontaneous abstract composition. However, this work was actually preceded by sketches and careful color studies of contrast, nuance and motion. Jean René Bazaine from 1942 onwards developed an abstract style of painting, associated with Tachisme, a European movement related to American Abstract Expressionism. Bazaine himself rejected the term “abstract,” viewing it as a denial of what he felt was an essential connection between art and reality. Many of his large compositions featuring virtuoso arrangements of color are in fact allusions to nature. Bazaine also created stained-glass windows, mosaics, carpets and other monumental works, which were of great influence on modern religious art.