The painting In the Wingbeat of the Swans borders the non-representational. At the same time it seems to suggest a couple wrestling with the powers of nature in an abstracted landscape. The colourful, ambiguous background is reminiscent of work by the Scandinavian artists Edvard Munch and Per Kirkeby. Jorn’s painterly handwriting emanates from the robust, abstract lines. This later work by Jorn displays characteristics of the artist’s mature style including asymmetrical, but balanced, contrasting colours. Jorn experiments with chance by letting the painted lines drip all over the surface. In addition, he plays with the use of medium by alternating thick and thin, with impasto and almost watery lines. Spontaneity and urgency are present in the application of paint. These qualities commonly appear in Jorn’s art. While one can read a narrative into the work, it resists an easily retrievable interpretation.
© Donation Jorn, Silkeborg c/o Pictoright Amsterdam/Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

Makers

Translated title

In the Wingbeat of the Swans

Collection

Other

Production date

1963

Library

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Dimensions

202 x 302cm.

Material

oil, mixed media on canvas

Object number

A 23534