Föhnwolke c. 1931

Karl Wiener made this drawing of a Föhnwolke, or Foehn cloud, with graphite on paper. What strikes me is how Wiener's mark making isn't trying to hide itself, but rather allows for a deep and sensitive exploration of the subject. Look closely, and you'll see how the texture of the paper becomes a key element in describing the cloud itself. The graphite, applied with varying pressure and direction, creates an atmospheric density that feels almost palpable. You can almost feel the wind moving across the page. Notice the darker tones that define the rooftops, contrasting with the ephemeral lightness of the sky. This piece reminds me of Vija Celmins' drawings of the night sky. Both artists use a limited palette and a meticulous approach to capture the immensity and beauty of the natural world. It's a reminder that art is often about finding new ways of seeing and experiencing the world around us, embracing the ambiguity that comes with it.