Woman Standing, Holding a Fan 1879

Mary Cassatt's "Woman Standing, Holding a Fan," is an exercise in the materiality of oil paint. We can see the artist at work, choosing to leave visible brushstrokes that create a tangible surface. Impressionist artists such as Cassatt moved away from the highly polished surfaces favored by the Academy. They embraced the tactile qualities of paint itself, and the immediacy with which it could capture a fleeting impression. Here, the loose, gestural brushwork seems almost unfinished, but look closer. The vibrant strokes and hues give depth and movement to the woman’s form and clothing. Cassatt likely favored this technique for its efficiency, producing a seemingly effortless image that belies the skill and labor involved. By highlighting the material presence of paint, Cassatt brings an awareness of the processes behind the image. Ultimately, appreciating art involves understanding the materials and making practices that bring it into being.