New Years New Moon 

Theodor Kittelsen made "New Years New Moon" in 1905, seemingly with graphite on paper. The visual impact of the work relies on the artist’s subtle handling of the medium, evoking a sense of stillness and cold, and the soft texture of a snow-covered landscape. Note the careful layering of graphite, building up tone and depth, especially in the sky above the treeline. The entire composition has a uniform appearance, and it's only upon closer inspection that we see the artist’s mark-making. The scene expresses a quiet moment in the Nordic winter, and it is a romantic vision of nature untouched by modernity. It’s worth remembering that Kittelsen was deeply concerned with social issues, and although this drawing is seemingly apolitical, it expresses a longing for something beyond the industrialized world – a world of quietude and connection with nature. By considering the materials, the making, and its original context, we can see the full meaning of this work, challenging any distinction between fine art and illustration.