Lake 

Isaac Levitan's painting, Lake, is made with oil paint on canvas, a traditional combination that has a long history in European art. Yet, Levitan’s loose brushwork and focus on capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, move painting away from academic precision towards a more modern sensibility. The painting's material qualities—the viscous texture of the paint, the way it reflects light, and the way the artist manipulates it to create form and depth—are central to its impact. The visible brushstrokes reveal the artist's hand, emphasizing the labor and skill involved in creating the image. Unlike mass-produced items, each stroke is unique. This highlights the value we place on the handmade, and the personal expression associated with it. Levitan's work invites us to appreciate not only the beauty of the scene, but also the artistry and effort behind its creation, reminding us of the human touch in a world increasingly dominated by mass production.