Walchensee mit Jochberg (Walchensee with Jochberg) 1923

This is Walchensee with Jochberg, an etching by Lovis Corinth. With just thin black lines, he builds form and space. The whole thing feels spontaneous, a quick impression. I love that you can see the decisions being made; the mark-making on display. The mountain on the right is a jumble of energetic marks. Look closely and you'll see that it’s all built up with short, diagonal strokes. They create shadows and texture, but also suggest movement. There’s an energy here, the mountain isn't static. The water below is calmer, with horizontal lines pulling the eye across the scene. This contrast in texture and pace creates a dynamic push and pull. It reminds me of work by Beckmann, who also explored printmaking with a similar directness. It’s all about how a simple line, repeated and layered, can evoke a whole world. The joy of etching lies in this open conversation.