Description:
In May 1889 Van Gogh confessed of his mental breakdown to Theo: "I am not fit to govern my affairs," he said, voluntarily asking his brother to admit him at the St Paul's Asylum. Van Gogh described the institution as being "like a third class waiting room." Hardly the place for someone who was malnourished, suffering from hallucinations and the lingering pains of self-mutilation. In an attempt to make him feel at home, he was given an extra room as a studio. The staff also encouraged him to venture into the decaying gardens, where he discovered the irises he used in numerous paintings over the last months of his life. As with many of Van Gogh's paintings, especially those executed at this time, critics have interpreted this image more as a psychological document, than as an aesthetic product. The painting certainly provides significant insights into his mental state but, on a purely artistic level, it is also of much worth. It could be argued that the two forms of analysis achieve a symbiotic relationship, each feeding off the other. For example, the close-up view, in which a multitude of flowers dominate a skyless picture, render meaning to the psychoanalyst and art historian alike. To the former it might speak of enclosure and suffocation, to the latter of a strong overall design sense. Also, the contrast between the painting's colors and Van Gogh's method of using them produce a paradox: blue is traditionally associated with peace and calm, but here these moods contrast with bold brushwork and wild, flourishing activity.
You are viewing a giclee print. Each piece was created by a special process called "Giclee". Giclee is a computer generated print that is produced by the spraying of an image on to fine art paper. The inks used are specially formulated so that the fine print heads can spurt jets of ink in minute droplets. When prints are produced on fine art quality paper, the print should posses archival standards of permanence comparable or better than other collectible work.
You are viewing a hand colored print. The process begins with hand-pulled black & white decorative and antique reproduction prints. Each print is then individually designed and hand colored using the same methods of color application that were used throughout the 19th century, before modern color lithography. Individual artists meticulously paint each piece using the finest European watercolor paints on heavy mat, acid free, archival paper resistant to deterioration and discoloration. By combining old world craftsmanship with fresh design innovations, our artists create works of stunning depth and vibrancy that are absolutely beautiful and unique.
Limited editions are a series of identical prints, which are limited to a one-time printing of a certain number of pieces. The artist determines the size of the edition, and usually signs and numbers each individual piece. Limited edition prints framed by the Fulcrum Gallery are handled separately and given the utmost individual care and attention, using archival framing materials and practices. Because limited editions are in limited supply, and are of exceptionally high quality, the price is generally at a premium to regular open edition prints.
