Building site of I. G. Farben 1928

Pauline Kowarzik made this work, Building site of I. G. Farben, with soft delicate strokes of pastel, in earthy hues of ochre, sienna and grey. I can imagine her outside, observing this industrial scene, and trying to capture its vastness and the flurry of activity. I wonder if she was thinking about the people working there, their daily lives, and the impact of this construction on the landscape? The trains snaking around the site evoke movement and energy. Look at how the subtle shading and textures create depth and atmosphere. It reminds me of the work of other artists who were drawn to industrial subjects, like Paula Modersohn-Becker. You can see a tenderness in the scene, the puffs of smoke are delicate and it appears she felt moved to capture it. This piece feels part of a larger conversation artists have had across time, inspiring each other to see and feel the world in new ways. I love how the muted palette and soft lines invite us to contemplate the complex relationship between industry, nature, and human endeavor.