Compare and contrast World War II (Vanitas) by Audrey Flack to Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by Dorothea Tanning – An ‘Isms’ Overview

Artworks have the ability to capture the essence of an era, reflecting the socio-political climate and the personal experiences of the artist. This comparative analysis examines two notable paintings from different periods: Audrey Flack‘s “World War II (Vanitas)” (1943) and Dorothea Tanning‘s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” (1978). By exploring the contextual and stylistic aspects of these works, we can gain insight into the artists’ interpretations and the societal implications within which they were created.

Flack’s “World War II (Vanitas)” was painted during a pivotal period of history, as World War II raged across the globe. It reflects the anxieties and uncertainty of the time, particularly in the United States. Tanning’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” emerges from a post-war era, where society experienced significant cultural and social transformations, influencing art and personal expression.

Flack’s painting portrays a still-life composition laden with symbolism. The arrangement includes war-related objects such as a gas mask, newspaper clippings, and military paraphernalia, juxtaposed with traditional vanitas elements like a skull and a burning candle. Flack’s intention is to convey the transience of life and the fragility of human existence in the face of war. The inclusion of personal items, such as a photo of her father in uniform, adds a deeply personal dimension to the artwork.

Tanning’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” takes a different approach, offering a surrealist depiction of a domestic scene. It portrays a haunting, dreamlike atmosphere with a reclining female figure, partially undressed, and enigmatic objects surrounding her. The painting blurs the line between reality and fantasy, inviting viewers to contemplate the subconscious and the complexities of femininity. Tanning’s work suggests a departure from the external turmoil of the war, focusing instead on the internal landscape of the human psyche.

Flack’s painting exhibits a meticulous and highly detailed technique, reminiscent of the Dutch masters. The attention to detail draws the viewer into the composition, enhancing the impact of the symbolism and the emotional weight of the subject matter. The strong use of chiaroscuro and the realistic rendering of textures contribute to the somber tone of the piece.

In contrast, Tanning employs a more abstract and expressive style. Her use of colour and brushwork creates a sense of movement and fluidity, evoking a dreamlike quality. The distorted perspective and disorienting spatial relationships further contribute to the surreal ambiance of the painting.

Both Audrey Flack’s “World War II (Vanitas)” and Dorothea Tanning’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” offer unique interpretations of their respective time periods and explore diverse thematic concerns. Flack’s painting delves into the anxieties of war, capturing the fragility of life and the human toll of conflict. Tanning’s work, on the other hand, delves into the realm of the subconscious, highlighting the complexities of personal identity and female experience.

While Flack’s painting addresses the external realities of a specific historical moment, Tanning’s work transcends time and space, exploring the universal and the psychological. These artworks exemplify the power of art to encapsulate and communicate complex emotions and ideas, reflecting the evolving nature of human experience and the multifaceted nature of artistic expression.