Philosophy of Interpretation

Several paintings of the gallery are linked to an interpretation.

For a painting to serve as a map of the self and the world, merely identifying oneself within it is not enough. One must also project the significant elements of one’s own situation and personal world onto the painting. The artwork, with its depiction of various relationships and dynamics, provides a framework that intuitively resonates with the viewer’s inner world. This resonance sparks a deeper understanding and inspiration within the self.

But before this process of identification and projection even begins, there is often a more immediate, visceral reaction—an initial fascination, a moment of captivation, the eye-opening "wow" or eureka experience. This moment is deeply emotional and often spontaneous, coming from the deepest layers of the self, where one is most vulnerable and yet most protected —protected behind social masks and positions. Art, with its unique language, walks directly through these defenses and takes the hand of the heart, creating a powerful sense of connection.

In that instant, the often lonely and sometimes unhappy self mysteriously feels: I am not alone. I am understood. This is the profound gift of art: it makes us feel seen and known in a way that transcends words. Van Gogh’s paintings are a poignant example of this. Despite his own struggles and profound sense of isolation, his works speak to us across time, touching that same loneliness in us with their raw, honest beauty. We trust his paintings deeply because we know the depth of his own experience. His art tells us, “I have felt this too,” and in that recognition, we find solace.

Similarly, Gauguin's paintings convey a different but equally powerful connection. His works express his profound bond with the Polynesian people and their spirit of love and generosity. Through his art, we sense the deep gratitude and inspiration he drew from their way of life. In viewing his paintings, we too are invited to experience that sense of unity and the gift of human connection, even across different cultures and times.

These artists, through their unique expressions, remind us that we are not alone in our experiences. Their art connects us to something larger, a shared human spirit that transcends individual suffering and isolation. It’s this mysterious, almost magical ability of art to speak to our deepest selves, to offer comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging, that makes it so profoundly important. This is the true essence of art: to reach out to us, to show us that we are understood, and to remind us of our shared humanity.