Gezicht op huizen en begroeiing in Buitenzorg c. 1921

This print, Gezicht op huizen en begroeiing in Buitenzorg, was made by Willem Witsen, though I don't know when, using etching. It looks like Witsen adopted the method of etching to create a tonal range and almost painterly effect. The dense foliage is created with a series of short, quick marks, varying the pressure and angle of his tool to build up dark and light areas, and capture all the surface textures of the tropical landscape. Notice how the network of lines creates a sense of depth and dimension. In the lower right corner, the crisscrossing strokes of the palm leaves are particularly successful, contrasting with the smooth planes of the buildings. I love how the texture feels both precise and spontaneous! The print reminds me a bit of the landscapes of Camille Pissarro. Like Pissarro, Witsen used repeated marks to create a sense of movement and vitality. Of course, art is an ongoing conversation, and it is through this dialogue that artists continue to push the boundaries of perception and expression.