After exploring the Metropolitan Museum of New York’s collection of abstract art, I found a painting that stuck out to me. This is an acrylic painting on canvas called Tink Tonk by Nabil Nahas. At first glance, it seems messy with a lot going on and that is precisely what drew me to it. This painting first caught my eye because of its chaotic nature. I chose to analyze this painting out of many others because it has the most striking appearance.

Tink Tonk features a variety of lines going in many different directions. They are all closed lines (hard and sharp). These lines create different overlapping, angular shapes within them such as triangles and squares. The path of each line leads back to one another. Each line is a different bright color that pops against the dark background. The colors suggest excitement and high energy. There is a lot of interesting textures in the background of this painting. The left side is composed of a lighter area with a lined pattern placed over brushstrokes. The right side is much darker. It also features a lined pattern, but these lines are crisscrossed. The center of the background is black, creating a great contrast between the vibrant, jagged lines and background. The top of the painting is the lightest and brightest part featuring vivid, colorful lines over a white background. The values of color in this painting create light and shadows that draw the eye to different areas. The clutter of lines, colors, and shapes create a crowded space. This painting has volume because of the placement and angles of the lines, forming a three-dimensional appearance.

Tink Tonk is a very lively and eye-catching painting. The aggressive, sharp lines paired with the vibrant colors and contrast of the dark background create a highly energized feel. The lines and shapes are overlapping and make the painting feel crowded and almost overwhelming. To me, this painting is exactly how I picture a shock of electricity. It creates an exciting mood. From my interpretation of the different elements in this painting, I believe Tink Tonk represents a sharp jolt of energy.

The work of art I chose to interpret is the painting titled “The Music Lesson” by Dutch artist, Johannes Vermeer. The painting takes place in a sunlit room, portraying a woman standing at a virginal, an instrument similar to a piano. Next to her stands a man, watching her play, appearing to give her a music lesson as the title presents.

There are many important details of this painting. Almost all that I could pick out seem to serve the purpose of emphasizing the focus. Many of the elements in the painting that surround the woman, reveal her significance as the main focal point. The pattern of the tiled floor, the window frames, the edge where the left wall meets the floor, and the angled edge of the tapestry covering a table to the right all lead the eye to point directly at the woman. Although she can only be seen from behind, there is a mirror located right above the virginal that reveals her reflection. I found that the artist’s use of color, highlights, and shadows are also significant details that help to bring the focus toward the woman. The light colors of the walls, virginal, and blouse of the woman highlight her focus. The bright red color of her skirt also draws the eye to her. The outer edges of the painting feature darker shadows that, again, blur the borders and bring the focus to the center. This painting captures a peaceful and intimate moment between a man and a woman sharing music. Their placement emphasizes their privacy. They are in the background behind two chairs, another instrument, and the tapestry covered table. The audience is separated from the couple and given the privilege to peek into a private moment between a couple from the outside.

The elements of this painting that I enjoy the most are the various patterns and colors like the tiles on the floor and the intricate tapestry draped on the table. They are simple, yet work together in such a beautiful way. I also like the included element of the mirror that gives a glimpse of the otherwise mysterious woman. This painting first appealed to me because of the simplicity of the scene. For me, it represents the importance of music. I love music and incorporate into my life every day. I like how it isn’t just portraying someone playing an instrument, but instead a music lesson between two people. It creates a more unique scene that I haven’t seen before. The other element that is represented by this painting is my favorite part. It’s the value of shared time between one another. I love how this painting is capturing such a peaceful and sentimental moment, especially with music.

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton