Lighthouse 1903

Ferdynand Ruszczyc made this painting, Lighthouse, using oil paints, although when I look at it, I could mistake it for a watercolour. The painting embraces subtlety, doesn’t it? I think Ruszczyc captured this tranquil scene by allowing the paint to blend and bleed, as it has a very soft and diffused quality. I’m especially drawn to the reflected lights on the water. See how the light catches on the waves, creating shimmering vertical strokes of yellow and orange? It’s like the water itself is breathing, alive with gentle energy. There's a lovely push and pull between abstraction and representation. On the one hand, the subject is clear – boats at sea, a guiding lighthouse. On the other, the loose brushwork and muted tones create an atmosphere that feels more dreamlike. Ruszczyc reminds me of Whistler, who was also interested in capturing fleeting moments and atmospheric effects. Both artists invite us to slow down, to really see the world around us with fresh eyes.