Malia
asked
Susan Vreeland:
Hello, I'm a big fan of your books, especially THE GIRL IN THE HYACINTH BLUE and THE PASSION OF ARTEMISIA. You write so well about art and artists that I wonder whether you have a favourite both in terms of their style and their story? Thanks!
Susan Vreeland
Oh my, favorites are so excluding. However, I must say that I adore Renoir's painting Luncheon of the Boating Party at the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. All those people, 14 of them, interacting on the terrace of a restaurant overlooking the Seine, made the painting alive for me. They were real people, Renoir's friends, whom I researched to know about their lives during the two months in 1880 when Renoir painted them. This research revealed tremendous story potential. The painting sparkles with la joie de vivre, with lively brush strokes, with intriguing and flirtatious interactions. I've studied it more than any other painting, and it still gives me joy in details of color handling and expression that seem new to me each time I return to it.
More Answered Questions
Kay
asked
Susan Vreeland:
Hi Susan! Reading your book, "The Passion of Artemisia" changed my life, and essentially set off my love of art history. Whenever I'm feeling down, I think of Artemisia Gentileschi, and her experiences help me overcome all obstacles. I was wondering if you have a favorite place or memory you travel to, in order to draw inspiration for your books or your life - an art history locus or sorts. Thank you!
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