The Window overlooking the Eiffel Tower 1920

Louis Marcoussis created this watercolor painting, “The Window overlooking the Eiffel Tower,” using pigments and paper, humble materials which lend themselves to spontaneity. The material qualities of watercolor invites an exploration of transparency and fluidity. Notice how the washes of color blend and bleed into one another, creating a dreamlike effect. This was a deliberate choice by the artist, playing with the ways in which the paint interacts with the paper, allowing for unexpected textures and effects. It suggests that the painting was created with immediacy and improvisation, rather than meticulous planning. Consider how the choice of watercolor and the techniques employed contribute to the overall mood and meaning of the artwork. Marcoussis seems more interested in capturing a fleeting moment or impression, rather than creating a polished work. This approach challenges traditional notions of artistic skill and craftsmanship, highlighting the importance of process and experimentation.