Dr. T. F. Chen

A span of four centuries of changing values in artistic tradition electrifies the air between Titian's “Venus With a Mirror” and Picasso's “Seated Woman”. The contemporary viewer can see the beauty in both icons, but within their worlds, each woman argues for the authenticity of the stylistic expression of her image. Locked in a moment of confrontation, the two do not comprehend that another world exists that values and cherishes both for their differences, not in spite of them. Through an open window, high above the fray, floats Chagall's folkloric pair of lovers. They seem to advocate ”love above confrontation,” and are enjoying the freedom only love can offer. WEDDING ABOVE THE VILLAGE Van Gogh's village of ”Starry Night” nestled deep in the south of France, sleeps peacefully, unaware of the radiant field of energy that enfolds it. Above the golden aura, the heavens sparkle with the sights and sounds of a wedding ceremony. Marc Chagall's innocent and joyous angelic figures celebrate the union, blessed with love, unfettered by human doubt and frailty. They are awash in hot Oriental red, the color of good fortune. This is a dream of supreme happiness, a magical moment bridging time and space, reality and imagination.