Self Portrait 1913

This self-portrait was painted by George Bouzianis using oils. Look at the way Bouzianis builds up the image through layers of brushstrokes, creating a surface that is alive with texture and energy. It feels like he's not just painting a likeness, but also trying to capture something of the inner self. The materiality of the paint is really present here. You can see the direction and pressure of each stroke, especially around the eyes and mouth, which gives the face a sense of depth. The colors are earthy, warm browns and ochres, creating a sense of intimacy. I'm drawn to the subtle variations in tone on his cheek, how they suggest the play of light and shadow. Bouzianis' work reminds me of some of the early expressionists, like Paula Modersohn-Becker, who were also interested in using paint to explore interior states. Ultimately, this painting is less about achieving a perfect resemblance and more about capturing a moment of self-reflection.