Meaning: The quote by Pierre Bonnard, "You reason color more than you reason drawing... Color has a logic as severe as form," encapsulates the significance of color in art and the depth of its impact on the viewer. Pierre Bonnard, a prominent French painter and printmaker, was associated with the Post-Impressionist group Les Nabis and is known for his use of vibrant colors and innovative compositions. In this quote, he highlights the profound role of color in the artistic process and its ability to convey meaning and emotion.

Color is often perceived on a subconscious level, evoking emotions and associations that can profoundly influence the viewer's interpretation of a work of art. Bonnard's assertion that "you reason color more than you reason drawing" suggests that color has a powerful cognitive and emotional impact, often surpassing the rational analysis of form and structure. This idea resonates with the principles of color theory, which explore the psychological and symbolic effects of different colors.

In the realm of art, color is not merely a decorative element but a fundamental component of visual communication. It possesses its own intrinsic logic and can convey meaning, mood, and atmosphere. Bonnard's statement that "color has a logic as severe as form" implies that the arrangement and application of color are governed by their own set of principles, which are just as rigorous and essential as those of form and composition.

Bonnard's own artistic practice exemplifies his profound understanding of color and its expressive potential. His use of luminous, often unconventional color combinations and his ability to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere demonstrate his mastery of color as a dynamic and evocative force in painting. His works often exude a sense of intimacy and emotional depth, largely due to his nuanced and sophisticated approach to color.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the idea that color can be a language in itself, capable of conveying complex narratives and emotions without the need for literal representation. In this sense, color becomes a vehicle for personal expression, enabling artists to communicate their inner worlds and evoke visceral responses from the viewer.

Bonnard's emphasis on the logic of color invites us to consider the intellectual and conceptual dimensions of color in art. It encourages us to recognize that color is not arbitrary but guided by its own inherent principles, which artists can harness to create profound and resonant visual experiences.

In conclusion, Pierre Bonnard's quote encapsulates the profound significance of color in art and its capacity to engage, communicate, and resonate on a deeply human level. Through his words, he invites us to appreciate the intellectual, emotional, and expressive power of color, urging us to reason and engage with color as rigorously as we do with form and drawing.