“Mandoline,” crafted by the artist Arman in 2004, is an evocative piece representative of the Nouveau Réalisme movement. This figurative artwork captures a deconstructed and abstracted rendition of a mandolin, blending elements of both realism and abstraction.
In the artwork, the mandolin is portrayed with fluid, dynamic strokes that create an impression of motion and energy. The dominant colors include shades of yellow, which outline the fragmented form of the instrument, and hints of blue and brown that add depth and contrast. The background, painted in a deep, dark hue, serves to highlight the vibrant, chaotic lines of the mandolin, emphasizing its fragmented and reassembled form. The brushstrokes are bold, suggesting a sense of spontaneity and vigor, which is a hallmark of Arman’s style and the Nouveau Réalisme movement. This piece invites viewers to contemplate the interplay between disassembly and reconstruction, offering a fresh, avant-garde perspective on a traditional subject.
