Bedroom in Arles
Vincent van Gogh
1888
Van Gogh Museum, Amesterdam
August Light
Hans Hofmann
1957
Chazen Museum, Madison WI
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My Sunday afternoon trip to the Chazen Museum (which I still want to call the Elvehjem), brought me not only face to face with Mr. Rothko, but also, an old favorite, in Hans Hofmann. Upon first glance this day, I couldn't help but see Van Gogh's "Bedroom in Arles" slightly re-imagined. The depth of the Hofmann is amazing and, thankfully, there is a bench across from it which allows longer contemplation. I felt I was looking into an ever-expanding world which would magically reveal whatever I dreamt up. I saw a muddy green vase with yellow dendrobium orchids arching out of it. I saw blue composition books piled next to the bed. I saw a brown cat crouching on the covers, etc., etc.
