Evening, San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice c. 1900 - 1920

Eugène Vail made this image of Venice using graphite on paper. There’s something about the soft grayness of the graphite that pulls you in. It's almost like you're peering through a veil. Look closely, and you'll notice how the graphite is applied in layers, creating a hazy, dreamlike effect. The textures are subtle but rich, especially in the way the light reflects off the water. See how Vail captures the essence of Venice with just a few simple strokes? The way he renders the architecture, like the dome of San Giorgio Maggiore, is so delicate, yet it conveys such a sense of solidity. This piece reminds me of Whistler's nocturnes. Both artists were interested in capturing the mood and atmosphere of a scene, rather than simply depicting it realistically. It’s all about capturing a feeling, an impression, a moment in time.