THYSSEN by Drew
Thyssen offers a good contrast to the Spanish styles of Prado
By: Drew De Los Santos
When you think of Impressionism, names like Degas, Manet, and Monet often come to mind, but the oldest “Impressionist,” the first to use the familiar small yet noticeable brush strokes, Camille Pissarro finally gets his just recognition in this Summer’s special exhibition at the Thyssen-Bornemisza. And my, what a pleasant introduction it was for someone who does not know the fine details of art history. The exhibit is in the newer part of the Thyssen and calm colored walls highlight the soothing paintings, which are arranged by the towns that Pissarro lived in and was inspired by. For me, the ingenious of Impressionism is its ability to capture the movement and texture of light, water, and wind. As well, at the same time the image is obscured by the individual strokes it is also revealed through the technique.
But if the quiet chaos of Impressionism doesn’t attract you as an afternoon activity, the permanent exhibit at the Thyssen is sure to please. Friends and I suggest starting at the second floor and weaving your way down to the zero floor (Planta Baja). This route enables you to travel from the 15th century to the 20th century. The Thyssen is filled with Italian, German, Netherlandish, Flemish, French, and even painters from the United States. Like the Prado, religion is a recurring theme, but something to look forward to when visiting the Thyssen is the depiction of a look at daily life in 15th century Europe. This along with an exquisite collection of landscape paintings makes the Thyssen-Bornemisza a unique experience.
For times and tickets visit: http://www.museothyssen.org/en/thyssen/home.
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Images
Featured image (Painting at the Thyssen)/ Otsoadantzan, CC BY-SA4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
