The artwork titled “The Creation of Man” was created by artist Marc Chagall around 1958 in France. This sketch and study is executed using pastel on paper and is a representation of the Naïve Art movement, often associated with Primitivism. The artwork’s dimensions are 49.9 x 32 cm, indicative of Chagall’s exploration in preparatory works and studies.
Upon examination of the artwork, one can observe a series of loosely rendered, expressive lines and forms. The pastel medium has allowed the artist to sketch with an immediate sense of spontaneity, capturing the fluidity of motion rather than focusing on precision or realism. The artwork could be seen as a narrative or conceptual exploration, characteristic of a study where the artist is working through ideas rather than presenting a polished, complete piece.
The central form in the artwork appears to be a large, swirling shape, possibly representing a celestial or divine presence, reminiscent of the biblical act of creation. The surrounding shapes and figures have an ethereal quality, lightly touched onto the paper with a focus on movement over form. The figures, somewhat abstract and almost gestural in nature, could be interpreted as human or angelic forms, interacting with or emerging from the creative force at the center.
The work as a whole conveys a sense of creation in process, both in subject matter and in the act of its own making. Through these exploratory strokes and the seemingly unrestrained flow of creativity, Chagall delves into the theme of genesis, aligning his artistic process with the subject of the work.
