Gass-Tanks c. 1935

This is a black and white print called 'Gass-Tanks' by Tunis Ponsen. The sombre tones, using what appears to be a lithographic crayon, give the scene an ethereal, almost dreamlike quality, despite depicting an industrial landscape. I’m drawn to the subtle variations in texture here; from the velvety blacks of the tanks to the hazy rendering of the smokestack in the background. The artist creates a sense of depth and atmosphere. Take a moment to observe the road curving into the distance, where the artist depicts two anonymous figures. There is a contrast between the softness of the crayon and the harsh reality of the industrial scene. It reminds me of the work of the German Expressionists, who used printmaking to express feelings about modern life, or perhaps Lyonel Feininger. Like them, Ponsen finds a strange beauty in the industrial world, and captures it with a personal touch. Ultimately, the meaning of the work is left open to interpretation, inviting us to contemplate our relationship with the industrial landscape and its impact on our lives.