Nouvelles impressions no 78

In the late 1970s—more specifically, in 1977 and 1978—Riopelle produced about 100 small oil canvases and 30 silverpoint drawings. Forced to work in a seated position following a knee injury, Riopelle focused on smaller formats, which he executed with characteristic passion and energy. The series of small paintings—some of them in triptych format—carries echoes of his Icebergs series, as does this sumptuously coloured landscape, Nouvelles impressions no. 78 (1977). In its centre is a narrow, thickly applied impasto cluster ranging in colour from cadmium green to teal to creamy yellow. This abundant vegetation is surrounded by tinted greys, silky whites, and pure magenta tips that literally frame the central verdant glow. This magnificent little gem has the same magnetic power as Riopelle’s greatest works.