View of Phnosia. Luminous Waves and Vibrations 1890

James Ensor made this painting, View of Phnosia, using oil on canvas. The material qualities are evident in the brushwork, which creates a hazy, dreamlike effect. Ensor's application of paint is loose, yet controlled, allowing the texture of the canvas to show through, which adds to the atmospheric quality of the painting. The muted palette, dominated by grays and ochres, evokes a sense of urban melancholy. Ensor was part of a generation of artists who embraced modern techniques and subjects. In the late 19th century, many artists began to engage with industrial materials, mass production, and the changing social landscape. Ensor, however, remained committed to traditional art materials and techniques, but he was radical in his application of these techniques and in the subject matter he chose. Looking at Ensor’s paintings, it is important to consider how he brought the concerns and techniques of the 19th century into the 20th century. He challenges us to reconsider what it means to be a modern artist.