Gezicht onder een boogbrug te Venetië 1870 - 1923

Editor: We are looking at Willem Witsen's watercolor, "View Under an Arch Bridge in Venice," created between 1870 and 1923. It's very muted, almost monochromatic, creating a somber mood. I’m particularly drawn to the contrast between the architectural elements and the reflected light on the water. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Structurally, the composition relies heavily on the circular form, the arch acting as both frame and focal point. The artist's reduction of color emphasizes the tonal relationships, forcing us to consider the formal aspects of light and shadow, particularly how they articulate space and depth within the confines of the composition. Note the contrast in textures. What strikes you? Editor: I’m intrigued by the flat quality of some of the architectural surfaces compared to the shimmering, fluid representation of the water. It's like two different realities existing side-by-side. Curator: Precisely. The tension between the representational and the abstract, or, the "real" and the illusory, can be interpreted as Witsen's commentary on the nature of perception itself. It highlights the surface as a key component, suggesting a concern with not only the appearance of reality, but also its inherent ambiguity and fragility. Consider the medium - is it suited to communicate these ideas? Editor: The watercolor seems perfect, as it's a very fluid, subtle medium and, when viewed, reflects some of the textural choices within the cityscape portrayed in the image. Thank you! That helps me view this piece in a totally new light. Curator: Indeed. Close visual inspection, as we’ve engaged in, opens avenues for new levels of insight, deepening our encounter with the artwork itself.