A study of a park in autumn by Avigdor Arikha, rendered in pastel with a focus on the changing colours of the foliage.

Avigdor Arikha, a painter known for his commitment to direct observation, produced this study of a park during the autumn season. Working primarily in pastel, Arikha captures the transition of foliage from summer green to the golden hues of the later months. The composition is viewed from an elevated position, looking down upon the pathways that cut through the grass. Arikha often worked quickly to record the immediate effects of light and colour before the conditions changed. This approach is visible in the application of the pastel, where the marks remain distinct and unblended. The artist avoids the use of heavy outlines, preferring to define the forms of the trees and the curves of the paths through the contrast of colour and tone. The palette is dominated by the yellow of the changing leaves, which provides a stark contrast against the remaining green of the lawn. Throughout his career, Arikha moved away from the abstraction of his early years to focus on the objective reality of his surroundings. Whether depicting a still life, a portrait, or a view from his window, his method remained consistent. He sought to record the visual experience without the interference of memory or artifice. This work reflects that disciplined practice, offering a clear, unadorned view of a seasonal shift. The paths serve as structural elements, guiding the eye through the space while grounding the more fluid, atmospheric treatment of the trees. By focusing on the specific quality of light on a particular day, the artist creates a sense of immediacy that is characteristic of his later output.