The artwork titled “Running Women” by Ferdinand Hodler, created in 1895, is rendered on canvas. Belonging to the Art Nouveau movement and falling under the genre painting category, this piece exhibits an expressive depiction of motion and emotion.
In the artwork, a group of women is portrayed in a dynamic, synchronized movement, seemingly engaged in a shared task or ritual. Their attire, which includes dresses and aprons in earthy tones and muted shades, conveys a sense of the everyday and the humble. The artist employs fluid brushwork and a harmonious color palette that captures a sense of unity and collective effort among the women. The background is sparse, emphasizing the focus on the figures and their movement. The rhythmic composition and the gestural quality of the painting reflect the Art Nouveau aesthetic, characterized by its fluid lines and natural forms.