Motif from Goisern 1903

Rudolf von Alt made this watercolour called Motif from Goisern. The brushstrokes are dabbed, almost pointillist, creating a shimmering surface of light and shadow. It’s like he’s not just painting what he sees, but also how he sees it. The way he uses the watercolour is so interesting. In places the paint is thin and transparent, allowing the paper to shine through, while in others it’s built up in layers, creating a sense of depth and texture. Look at the leaves of the tree, they’re not just green, but a whole symphony of greens, browns, and yellows, each dab of colour contributing to the overall effect. And notice how the light filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the building behind. It’s this attention to detail that makes the painting so engaging. This kind of atmospheric scene reminds me of Corot, but with a lighter, more playful touch. It shows how artists are always in conversation with each other, building on what came before, but also finding their own unique voice.