Nick Smith's ‘Dance at Le Moulin’ from his current ‘PANAME’ exhibition here at RHODES is a contemporary reinterpretation of Renoir's ‘Bal du moulin de la Galette’ using his signature colour chip collage technique. Smith's artwork draws inspiration from Renoir's original masterpiece, renowned for its vibrant portrayal of Parisian life in the late 19th century.
'Dance at Le Moulin' colour chip collage by Nick Smith, 2024
Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Bal du moulin de la Galette, 1876
Renoir's ‘Bal du moulin de la Galette’ captures a moment of leisure and belonging at the Moulin de la Galette, a popular dance hall in Montmartre. Celebrated for it’s dynamic composition and skilful use of light and colour, the painting offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of the working-class Parisians of the 1800s, highlighting the importance of social interaction and community in the bustling urban landscape of the time. Renoir's loose brushwork and skilful depiction of movement imbue the scene with a sense of vitality and spontaneity, reflecting the spirit of the dance hall where people came together at the end of the day to dance to music and enjoy each other's company.
In ‘Dance at Le Moulin’, Nick Smith pays homage to Renoir's iconic work while offering a contemporary reinterpretation through his innovative use of his colour chip collage technique. By meticulously arranging colour swatches, Smith recreates the bustling dance scene with a mosaic-like effect that evokes the sense of movement and energy present in Renoir's original painting. The vibrant colours of Smith's collage capture the essence of the lively atmosphere depicted by Renoir, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the joyous festivities of the Moulin de la Galette.
'Dance at Le Moulin' in exhibition as a part of Smith's 'PANAME' series.
Through his reinterpretation, Smith bridges the gap between past and present, honouring Renoir's artistic vision whilst infusing it with his own contemporary style and technique. ‘Dance at Le Moulin’ serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Renoir's masterpiece and highlights the timeless themes of joy, camaraderie, and the beauty of everyday life.
As Smith explains,
"By blending the historical gravitas of Parisian art with the immediacy of modern digital techniques, I aim to highlight the enduring relevance of these masterpieces, thus fostering a dialogue that spans centuries.”
Additionally, Smith’s use of Émile Zola’s ‘Nana’ text captures the essence of Zola's portrayal of Parisian society and truly brings this piece to life. Zola's 'Nana' delves into the social milieu of late 19th-century Paris, focusing on the rise of Nana's character from humble beginnings to a courtesan renowned for her beauty and allure. Zola paints a picture of Parisian society, its decadence, and its moral decay. Breathing life and context into Smith’s reimagining of Renoir’s classic piece, this blending of works bridges the gap between past and present.
Detail image of 'Dance at Le Moulin'.
In ‘PANAME’, Nick’s ‘Dance at Le Moulin’ brings one of impressionisms most celebrated masterpieces from the past into the present through his instantly recognisable pixelated style. This contemporary reimagining not only honours the legacy of Renoir but also celebrates the ongoing relevance and resonance of his artistic vision that continues to impact the art world today.
‘PANAME’ continues until the 25th of May 2024.
For more information about ‘Dance at Le Moulin’ or others in the ‘PANAME’ series, please email info@rhodescontmeporaryart.com
