Arab Song

In 1927 Paul Klee explained his longing for "local color" experienced through travel: "This is what I search for all the time: to awaken sounds which slumber inside me, a small or large adventure in color." Klee began producing a large amount of travel inspired artwork up until 1932. Klee's artistic breakthrough into abstract art happened during his trip to Tunisia in 1914. Arab Song is inspired by his early trips to Tunisia and North Africa. Using burlap much like the clothing of the subject Klee paints a playful image while still capturing the heat and sand of the North African landscape.