a Tree 

Otto Mueller painted this image of *a Tree* with oil paint on canvas, using expressive brushstrokes. The paint is applied gesturally, almost violently, creating a dynamic surface. The tree itself is not depicted realistically but rather as a symbol of resilience. The weight of the paint gives a physical presence to the tree. The colors, though muted, add to the emotional intensity of the scene. Mueller was associated with the Expressionist group Die Brücke, who often used art to express strong emotions. He likely chose oil paint for its ability to convey depth and texture, qualities that enhance the painting's expressive power. The raw, unblended strokes suggest the labor and energy involved in its making. Paying attention to the materials and techniques reveals how artists used art and the labor involved in its production to engage with social and cultural issues.