Rhythmic Trees c. 20th century

Editor: This is Johann Walter-Kurau's "Rhythmic Trees" at the Harvard Art Museums, and the title really grabs me. It feels like music somehow, but the monochrome palette gives it a somber tone. What do you hear when you look at it? Curator: I love that "hearing" it! To me, the rhythm is in the brushstrokes, short and almost staccato, mimicking the texture of bark. They almost vibrate. It is like a silent song of nature, isn't it? Editor: Definitely! I was so focused on the darkness of the image, I almost missed the movement. Curator: The artist draws you in, doesn't he? Did you notice the artist uses black, white, and grey to focus your attention on the texture and pattern? Editor: Now that you mention it, I do. So, it's less about what the trees *are*, and more about how they *feel*. Curator: Precisely! I think the artist is looking for the soul of the trees. It's almost like he wants to be one of them. Editor: I'll never look at trees the same way again! Curator: Isn’t it amazing to see how art can change your perspective?