Naked in the woods, 1932

Alekos Kontopoulos painted this nude in the woods, and the way he applied the paint, it’s all about building up layers. You can see how each stroke contributes to the overall form, suggesting a process of gradual discovery. The earthy tones and textured surface give the painting a real sense of depth. Look closely, and you'll notice how the paint isn't smooth, but rather has a tactile quality, almost like the surface of skin. I'm drawn to the way the light catches her skin, and the subtle variations in color, from the rosy cheeks to the shadowed curves of her body. The artist isn't trying to hide his process; rather, he’s inviting us to witness it. This piece reminds me a little of early Manet, especially in its casual realism and embrace of the everyday. It’s the kind of painting that invites you to linger, to get lost in its imperfections, and to find beauty in the unexpected.