‘Orientation’ included a class trip to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Was this to introduce to us aspects of American life? Or to an aspect of its legal system? It wasn’t made clear.
In any event, the permanent collection was impressive. Personal favourites included some works by Piet Mondrian and Cy Twombly’s Fifty Days at Iliam.
I also spent a wonderful hour or so in the Late Renoir exhibition. There are many who dislike this period of Renoir’s work – and indeed, this particular show – but I have to say that I emerged all the better for seeing it. (And in art, surely that’s half the point?)
First of all, innovative or no, Renoir’s ability to capture the light that blesses the south of France cannot be denied. His paintings of Cagnes and the surrounding area evoked memories of many happy holidays spent there. Second, I’m a huge Matisse fan, so loved seeing how his work was influenced by that of Renoir. Third, I was inspired by Renoir’s dedication to his craft. The final painting displayed was The Bathers. 
For me, its importance stems not from the actual painting, but from the circumstances in which it came to be. It was completed in 1919, at which point Renoir’s hands were knotted with rheumatoid arthritis. Nevertheless, he continued to paint this large work until he felt it complete. Even though his illness made the task nearly impossible, he carried on, saying “the pain will fade, but the beauty remains”. Footage of Renoir in action revealed the joy which transported him as he worked. A suggestion to the critics: lambast the paintings themselves if you want, but do not forget the quite remarkable dedication of a man who loved his craft.
Indeed, as we embark on another challenging year of study, perhaps this part of the orientation schedule was to underline the importance of commitment to lasting and worthwhile outcomes. “The pain will fade, but the beauty remains.” [Vom. Et exeunt.]
Fifty States 
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