#FridayPainting: Paul Signac “The Papal Palace in Avignon”

The art of the colourist has in some ways elements of mathematics and music.”

Paul Signac

Paul Signac was studying architecture when he had a better idea. Why not become a painter? With that decision, his life evolved. He met Georges Seurat in 1884.

Georges Seurat developed the technique of applying small strokes or dots of colour to a surface which would blend together when looked at from a distance. Paul Signac was fascinated by Seurat’s theory of colours as well as his systematic working methodology.

Paul Signac (1863-1935) The Papal Palace in Avignon 1909 Oil on Canvas

The two artists became life-long friends. Together they developed what was to become known as pointillism, which became the basis of Neo-Impressionism.

Published by Rebecca Budd

Blogger, Visual Storyteller, Podcaster, Traveler and Life-long Learner

12 thoughts on “#FridayPainting: Paul Signac “The Papal Palace in Avignon”

    1. I agree, Sylvia!! I often wondered how Signac’s artistic journey would have progressed if he had been given the gift of more years. I think the same for Vincent Van Gogh. Many thanks for your visit and comments. Sending hugs!!!

      Liked by 3 people

  1. Fabulous!
    You pick the best paintings. Although it must be difficult, seeing as you see a new one every day.
    Lol! You said you had art calendars going back for years. I wonder what gems are in those?

    Liked by 3 people

  2. What a beautiful painting, my guess is that this is a part of our new Art Calendar for 2022. I am waiting for mine and not to patiently. These wonderful daily offerings bring so much joy to our lives. Paul Signac probably enjoyed architecture until he found his real gift of painting! His combining of colors, putting them together to make beautiful paintings have lasted for decades. It is interesting that two artists came together to learn from each other. A very good example for us, we learn so much from others!

    Liked by 3 people

    1. I have your 2022 art calendar ready to deliver once the restrictions are lifted, Frances. This year is even better than last year – but I say that every year, don’t I? I have learned so much from following these daily “art events.” It is an excellent way to start the day. This weekend, the artist is Cezanne!!

      Liked by 3 people

    1. There is so many fabulous stories that I discover with one painting. Did you know that Signac was good friends with Vincent Van Gogh and Toulouse Lautrec? There was an event that included a dual in 1890. It all started during the banquet of the XX exhibition when artist, Henri de Groux criticized van Gogh’s work. Toulouse Lautrec took exception and challenged de Groux to a dual. Signac immediately said that he would continue to fight for Van Gogh’s honour should Lautrec meet his end. Fortunately, the duel never took place. De Groux apologized for the slight and left the group. I am fascinated by the artistic connections during this time. It seemed that everyone knew each other.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. What is most interesting about Georges Seurat was his colour theories. I haven’t completed any deep research but I am fascinated by how he used colour to bring out emotions. For example, the emotion of happiness can be achieved by the domination of luminous hues, by the predominance of warm colours and by the use of lines directed upward. Have a wonderful weekend, Marina! Sending hugs and more hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

  3. Stunning! Seurat is such a fascinating artist, and has influenced many since, as he did with Signac (beautiful painting here). I have recently been reading about Seurat’s influence on the incredible British artist Bridget Riley. Her work is groundbreaking like his was.

    Liked by 2 people

You're welcome to join the dialogue!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.