Abstract Expressionism: Bird's Eye View by Rolph Scarlett - Essay Example

Bird’s Eye View by Rolph Scarlett Painted in 1947, the work in question is a fine example of expressionism. The work could be read and interpreted in more than one way. But the most obvious reference following from the title is that of a cityscape, with its attendant congestion, uniformity and chaos. Being an example of expressionist art, the mood is the foremost aesthetic component in the work. The painter uses a couple of devices to illustrate his intentions. It also invokes a somber mood, consistent with the condition of human alienation common to city-dweller.

This darkened mood is expressed through an apt choice of colors. In particular, the use of red, black and dark blue serves to show how urban lifestyles leave individuals feeling secluded. The juxtaposition of dark and light hues gives the illusion of cramped spaces - both in geographic terms and as a metaphor for the state of mind of a city-dweller.We can also see in the painting how a cityscape is illustrated through the use of straight lines, sharp edges and angles. They could be interpreted as representing the rigid racial and class divisions that prevail in modern societies.

They also stand for the harshness and monotony of contemporary livelihoods.It is instructive to look at the artist’s broader interests to better comprehend the painting. To note, Scarlett has had an active interest in art forms other than painting. These include jewelry designing and deco designing as well. As a result, his understanding of sense of space as a three-dimensional construct is unique. This is amply brought to bear in the Bird’s Eye View.