La Pagode 1941

Wols made this intriguing watercolor, La Pagode, sometime in the mid-20th century. It's a piece that invites you to get lost in its delicate lines and subtle washes, a real testament to the power of process. The painting feels like a conversation, one where Wols is exploring the possibilities of his materials. Look at the way he's layered those transparent colors, how they bleed and blend, creating depth and atmosphere. There's a real sense of discovery here, as if the image is emerging organically from the interaction of water, pigment, and paper. Notice how a camel seems to be wandering in the space between the two faces. For me, this detail captures the entire mood of the artwork and the idea of art as an ongoing conversation. Wols' work reminds me a bit of Paul Klee, in the sense that both artists embraced a kind of playful experimentation. But Wols has his own unique voice, a kind of raw intensity that sets him apart. Ultimately, art is about embracing ambiguity, letting go of fixed ideas, and allowing yourself to be surprised.