Sketch of the bridge 1911

August Macke made this sketch of a bridge with what looks like a humble pencil, but look how much he achieves! The gradations of tone give it such a sense of depth. I can almost imagine him, standing there, feeling the air, thinking, how can I get this down? How can I make a mark that stands for that building, for the way the light is hitting it? It must have been cold. I’m especially drawn to the figures on the bridge, and the man and horse to the left. There's something so evocative about the way he captures movement and the fleeting moments of everyday life. It reminds me of other painters who capture light and atmosphere in such a vivid way. Like they’re all in conversation, you know? Ultimately, looking at this sketch, it's the artist’s touch, the physical act of drawing, that brings it all to life. And it’s amazing how it can still speak to us so many years later.