Large Poplar II

Large Poplar II

The Large Poplar II by Gustav Klimt painted in 1903, manifests a beautiful array of an impressionist style incorporated into the natural scenery of the environment. During the Victorian era through the 19th century, the popular theme within paintings were puzzling artworks that cause the audience to ponder the message and emotion behind it. As evident orphan the Large Poplar II, the complex painting causes the viewer to analyze the work and the significance behind it.

Upon looking at the work, the significant focal point that seizes the attention of the viewer is the large cylinder shape near the centre right of the painting growing from the ground. Art critics discuss the different items that the shape can symbolize, for example a couple swirling together, a large tree growing from the ground, or perhaps a philosophical idea of a spirit of in the air. The piece holds the significant ability to confuse the viewer, while seizing their emotions as they are stuck wondering what the piece entails.

The painting is based on a dark burgundy colour scheme, incorporating a sponge technique on the large shape within sky to showcase small red dots throughout the work. While the painting remains a bucket of confusion, the deep grey sky is painted to illustrate a dark storm coming. The dark colour scheme generates a melancholic emotion to the painting; while the gloomy clouds fill the sky.

The interesting concept to ponder within the piece is if the dark cloud had left the scenery, would the canvas be a bright positive atmosphere. The significance of the piece is that the dark clouds add the sad emotion to the canvas, without them, the field would remains as a common one on any given day. Towards the bottom of the canvas throughout the field, red coloured vegetation grows outside of the deep roots.

The viewers are able to witness the array of red trees that are perfectly lined up along the road. However the question that comes across everybody's mind is why one of the trees grows into a horrific tall plant. The tall tree is the focal point of the whole piece, questioning what magical experience occurred to deform the tree. Beneath the large tree, a tiny house stands bent into the piece.

The impressionist technique pays tribute to Klimt's classic style, while accentuating the beautiful colours throughout the piece. The painting was created as Klimt was exploring through his gold phase, a prominent artist that is able to expand his style not focusing on one. The artist did not let the painting remain flat, however used different landscapes to add a 3D texture to the piece. As the viewer looks towards the horizon, they are able to see the sky lightening up, showcasing the positive turn. The symbolism found within Gustav Klimt's work encourages the viewer to witness his style in a new light.