Joseph Chelmonski – Indian summer | DKJo!

During the next meeting of the One Picture Discussion Club (DKJo!) we will take a closer look at one of the most beautiful works of Polish realist painting – “Babie lata” by by Józef Chełmoński.

This picturesque depiction of a rural landscape takes us into the atmosphere of an idyllic village of the late 19th century, showing the harmony of man with nature and the charm of everyday life.

“Babie Summer” was created in 1875. The painting reflects Chelmonski’s fascination with folk life and his ability to capture the atmosphere of the moment. The work exudes tranquility and nostalgia. At the same time, it emphasizes the cyclical nature and passing of time, making it a timeless symbol of Polish realist painting.

During the meeting:

• We will analyze how Chelmonski depicts the relationship between man and nature and how the composition of the painting captures the atmosphere of an autumn afternoon. We will consider the symbolism of the threads of the Indian summer floating in the air.
• We will discuss Chelmonski’s painting technique, including his handling of light and color, which emphasizes the transience of the moment and the richness of nature.
• We will look at the historical context of the work’s creation, analyzing how Chelmonski’s paintings fit into the trend of realism and how his works reflect the life of 19th century Poland.
• We’ll talk about Chelmonski’s role in shaping Polish artistic identity and how his paintings contributed to perpetuating the image of the idyllic countryside in national culture.
• We will consider the universal message of the painting – finding beauty in simplicity and everyday life, and its influence on contemporary viewers.

As always, we will also invite you to a joint discussion, sharing your own interpretations and reflections.

The meeting will be moderated by: art historian Lukasz Wudarski.