Ducks in Water c. 1928 - 1930

Curator: Okay, let’s talk about "Ducks in Water" by Komori Soseki, a woodblock print from around 1928-1930. Editor: This piece has a charming simplicity; it's sweet. The ducks feel very present, even with the sparse use of detail. One appears to be diving! What's your take on its gentle composition? Curator: You know, that "sweetness" you identify – that's the genius! Soseki isn’t aiming for realism, but something deeper. Ukiyo-e prints like this, especially from that era, play with suggestion rather than explicit representation. Look at how the reeds are almost scribbled in, yet they perfectly convey a sense of place, a delicate pond ecosystem. Editor: It's almost like a visual haiku, where the unsaid is as important as what’s shown! Do you see any specific influences here, apart from the obvious ukiyo-e style? Curator: Absolutely! I feel like there's a hint of *shin-hanga* as well – a revitalized print movement focusing on landscapes with naturalism, which makes this piece interesting and gives it such quiet dignity. It isn't just reporting what's there, but creating an atmosphere of placid reflection, you know? The water almost appears hand-painted, using flat planes, as light as it possibly can be to show motion. Editor: That’s a refreshing approach to landscape, in terms of materiality. Thank you. I find it quite meditative now that you mention all these things. Curator: Yes! And I think, personally, there's such solace in something so delicately captured, such small, private joy. Editor: I will now think differently when approaching this art. The artist created a soothing environment; that´s clever, I agree. Curator: Well, I'm glad you now see the work on new levels and with that refreshed view! Now, onward with this adventure.