The Sun and the Frogs 1927 - 1930

Marc Chagall made this print, called The Sun and the Frogs, using etching. It’s so textural, like a dense, woven tapestry of marks. See how the lines create a whole universe? The sun looms up top, a dark, heavy orb. The foliage is scratchy, almost agitated. But down below, by the bridge, the ink seems to pool and thicken, creating these almost velvety shadows where the frogs hang out. I love the way Chagall uses the etching process to build up layers of depth. It’s all about the push and pull between dark and light, creating a dreamlike space where anything feels possible. This reminds me of Redon’s prints, full of strange symbolism and moody atmospheres. Art is always this ongoing conversation, a back and forth between artists across time. It’s never about fixed meanings but embracing the mystery.