Monic Thouin-Perrault – Vertige, De Monic Thouin-Perrault

The artwork presents a fragmented and dynamic composition dominated by cool blues and greens punctuated by warmer yellows and ochres. Here we see three figures, seemingly female, rendered in a stylized, almost abstracted manner. Their bodies are elongated and distorted, appearing to twist and contort within the space of the canvas. The artist has eschewed realistic representation; instead, they prioritize conveying a sense of movement and emotional intensity.
The arrangement of the figures suggests a narrative or psychological state rather than a straightforward depiction of individuals. One figure appears to be falling or descending, her arm outstretched as if reaching for support that is not present. Another seems to float or ascend, her posture suggesting both grace and vulnerability. The third figure is partially obscured, contributing to an overall feeling of disorientation and instability.
Geometric shapes – primarily angular lines and fragmented squares – intersect the figures’ forms, further disrupting any sense of spatial coherence. These geometric elements do not function as architectural representations but rather seem to embody a psychological or emotional landscape. They create a visual tension that reinforces the impression of unease and imbalance. The interplay between organic curves (the bodies) and rigid lines generates a palpable dynamism within the piece.
The color palette contributes significantly to the work’s mood. The prevalence of blues evokes feelings of melancholy, introspection, and perhaps even anxiety. The splashes of yellow and ochre offer moments of warmth and hope, but they are ultimately subsumed by the dominant cool tones. This creates an atmosphere that is both beautiful and unsettling.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of vulnerability, loss of control, and the fragmented nature of identity. The falling figure could represent a descent into despair or a moment of crisis. The ascending figure might symbolize aspiration or a yearning for transcendence. The overall effect suggests an exploration of inner turmoil and the struggle to maintain equilibrium in a chaotic world. The triptych format itself – the division of the image into three panels – might further emphasize this sense of fragmentation, suggesting that wholeness is elusive or unattainable.