“Departure of Summer,” created by artist Man Ray in 1914, is an oil painting on canvas exemplifying the Cubist art movement. This genre painting showcases the artist’s early exploration of Cubist techniques and forms.
The artwork depicts three nude figures in a dramatically stylized manner amidst a dark and contrasting background. The forms are simplified into geometric shapes, reflecting the characteristics of Cubism. The figures appear to be engaged in an expressive interaction, with dynamic poses that suggest movement and a sense of departure. The play of light and shadow, as well as the use of bold lines and muted colors, further accentuates the emotional depth and abstract nature of the scene. The somber atmosphere and the structural composition imply an underlying narrative, resonating with the title “Departure of Summer.”
