Changing 

Nigel Van Wieck painted "Changing" with oil on canvas sometime in the 20th century. Oil paint is so interesting, isn't it? Its smooth, buttery texture allows for subtle gradations of color and light. You can see how Van Wieck skillfully blended his colors to create a dreamy atmosphere. The way the paint sits on the canvas, with its slight impasto, adds to the texture and depth of the composition. The choice of oil paint here is significant. It's a traditional medium, associated with the Western art historical canon. It provides a sense of permanence, and allows artists to build up layers of meaning and representation. Yet in Van Wieck’s hands, it becomes something more casual, and accessible. Think about the labor involved in creating such a large piece. Each brushstroke, each layer of paint, contributes to the overall effect. The process of painting becomes a record of the artist's time and effort, a testament to the value of human creativity. The use of common materials reminds us of the connections between art and everyday life, challenging traditional notions of artistic skill and value.