“On the Contrary” is a work of art created by Kay Sage in 1952, representing the Surrealism movement. This painting can be classified within the cityscape genre, although it conveys an abstract and dreamlike vision that is typical of Surrealist works.
The artwork portrays an enigmatic scene with architectural elements dominating the composition. A large, unadorned rectangular opening presents a view of a clouded, ambiguous sky that seems both close at hand and distantly unreachable. Stark, monochromatic walls frame the opening, emphasizing the emptiness and desolation of the space. In the foreground, an intricate assembly of what appears to be scaffolding or geometric frameworks creates a complex interplay of lines and shapes. Earthy tones and the absence of vibrant colors contribute to the artwork’s austere and introspective quality. The precise and meticulous rendering of the structures contrasts with the soft, diffused quality of the sky, further enhancing the painting’s surreal effect. The composition as a whole evokes a sense of isolation and alienation, challenging the viewer to seek meaning in the juxtaposition of the concrete and the ethereal.
