The artwork titled “Page of the Universal Atlas, II. Bay of Biscay,” created by Pierre Alechinsky, belongs to the “Universal Atlas” series and is part of the Cartographic Art and Neo-Expressionism art movements, falling under the figurative genre.
In this piece, Alechinsky has employed a remarkable blend of cartographic elements and expressive figurations. The artwork features a significant use of bold, black brushstrokes that form an abstract and somewhat introspective human-like figure whose contours and features are drawn over a detailed map delineating the area around the Bay of Biscay. The interplay between the cartographic elements, with their fine, intricate lines and subdued colors, and the dynamic, dark strokes of the figure creates a striking juxtaposition, embodying a conversation between geographic space and human presence. This artwork thus not only represents physical geography but also conveys emotional and expressive depth, characteristic of Alechinsky’s Neo-Expressionist approach.
