An artwork on Galleree from The Art Institute of Chicago.
About the artwork
ThirstRobert Genin
Russian, 1884–1939
1913
Russia
100.4 × 80.1 cm (39 1/2 × 31 1/2 in.)
Oil on canvas
Arthur Jerome Eddy Memorial Collection
['Century of Progress', "world's fairs", "Chicago World's Fairs", 'plants', 'trees', 'mountains', 'houses', 'landscapes', 'women', 'drinking', 'farm life', 'livestock', 'pigs', 'children', 'mothers']
['oil on canvas', 'painting', 'modern and contemporary art']
['Drinking and Dining']
This artwork, titled "Thirst" by Robert Genin, invites viewers into a serene moment of connection between a mother and her child. The figures are enveloped in soft, flowing lines and gentle colors that evoke a sense of warmth and tenderness. The mother, kneeling beside a tranquil body of water, holds her child tenderly, offering a drink, symbolizing both nourishment and love.
Surrounding them, the landscape is painted with abstract forms of hills and trees, creating a harmonious backdrop that feels almost dreamlike. The vibrant greenery and the hint of a home in the background suggest a rural life closely tied to nature. The use of soft brushstrokes adds to the intimacy of the scene, inviting viewers to reflect on the simple yet profound aspects of life—care, sustenance, and the nurturing bond between parent and child.
In many ways, "Thirst" is not just about physical hydration but also serves as a metaphor for emotional and spiritual needs. The painting encourages contemplation on what it means to nurture and to be nurtured. Each element, from the gentle curves of the figures to the serene landscape, works together to create a moment that feels both universal and deeply personal.
About the artist
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