The Expressive Gestural Painting
The term "gestural painting", also known as "gesturalism" is used to describe a method of fine art painting which is characterized by expressive yet energetic brushstrokes. They are deliberately meant to emphasize the sweep of the painter's arm or movement of the hand. In simpler words, the brushwork in a gesturalist painting expresses the true emotions and personality similar to how a person gestures or movement reflect their feelings in everyday life. Not only that, it is also meant to signify the physical act of painting itself, drawing attention to the so-called "process of creating".
Turning towards the origin and history, the art world was predominantly filled with Academic art up until the mid-19th century. It was promoted by Europe's great Academies of fine art for its classical, top tier appearance. As these aesthetics began to gradually relax, painters felt greater freedom to paint in the way they felt or in their own style. Because of gestural painting, new themes began to emerge such as Barbizon and French Realism. One of the most famous gesturalists was Van Gogh (1853-1890). Many of his paintings are marked with brushstrokes that express the mental anguish and anxiety he was underneath. To point out a few, his "Wheat Field with Crows" and "Roots and Branches" were renown for the theme.
Roots and Branches
By Van Gogh
Wheat Field with Crows
By Van Gogh
Gestural painting is the true definition of inner meaning. The art technique is dedicated to the idea that artworks have the ability to speak and convey emotion without the need of words. It is amazing to realize how important art was to those who devoted their lives to it. In a way, these artists manages to make this seemingly simple activity into a book, journey, and storyteller. As we further understand the intricate art from our predecessors, we must realize that art can achieve virtually any motive that the creator may have in mind.
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