Villa of the Artist in Kilo 1921

Magnus Enckell made this watercolor painting titled "Villa of the Artist in Kilo" in 1921. Watercolor painting is an interesting technique, where pigment is suspended in water, rather than oil or acrylic. In contrast to those media, watercolor can seem less serious or substantive. Perhaps this explains why Enckell, who made his name as a Symbolist painter in oils, turned to watercolor late in life, possibly for relaxation. Whatever the case, Enckell certainly makes the most of the medium. The colors are freely applied in overlapping washes that create depth and atmosphere, evoking a sense of place, light, and air. Note how the trees in the foreground are just dark blots of color, while the background is suggested by hazy earth tones. The materiality of watercolor invites the viewer to appreciate how an artwork can be skillfully crafted, without being overworked. Ultimately, this painting demonstrates how an artist can master a so-called ‘minor’ technique to achieve major aesthetic effects.