Five chicks 1900 - 1936

Ohara Koson made this print of five chicks, probably in the early 20th century, using woodblock printing. The whole thing is bathed in a soft, almost grayscale palette, giving it a dreamy, delicate feel. It’s so process-oriented, you can almost feel the artist carefully layering each color to create depth and texture. I love the way the artist captures the fluffiness of the chicks. The texture isn't just visual, you want to reach out and touch them! And the way they’re all clustered together, pecking at the ground, it’s like a snapshot of a fleeting moment. The blades of grass in the background aren't just decorative, they're like brushstrokes, adding another layer of texture and movement to the piece. Thinking about the conversational nature of art, I see a kinship between Koson's work and some of the early Impressionists, like Monet or Degas. There’s that same interest in capturing everyday life and fleeting moments, in a similar vein, but Koson brings a unique sensibility to the table. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art is always open to interpretation, inviting us to bring our own experiences and perspectives to the table.