Two Studies of an Ocelot 1922

Here we have Herman Palmer's "Two Studies of an Ocelot," made in 1921 using pen, ink, and watercolor. It’s all about the line, isn’t it? Palmer is working and reworking the ocelot’s contour, letting it blur into shadow. He’s not precious, he's letting the process unfold. Look at the way he renders the spots. The watercolor bleeds into the paper, softening the edges. The overall effect is casual, relaxed. In the main figure, there is this beautiful, awkward connection between the front and back legs. It’s this slight awkwardness that makes the image feel so alive. Palmer studied animals, their form, and movement. You see the influence of artists like Dürer or Stubbs, who were also captivated by the natural world. But Palmer brings a modern sensibility, embracing imperfection and spontaneity. It reminds us that art isn't about perfect representation but about seeing and feeling.