Nude Male with Fish 1917

Heinrich Campendonk made this woodcut print, "Nude Male with Fish," at some point in his career using bold marks to create a scene that feels both earthly and mystical. Look at how the stark contrast between black and white shapes the composition. The textures vary from smooth, flowing lines to jagged, angular forms. This interplay adds depth and a tactile quality to the print. The woodcut medium lends itself to this, the carving process itself being so direct and physical. Notice the man's hand gently resting on the fish, versus the surrounding foliage, described with hard, vertical lines. The exchange between the figure and the fish feels tender, hinting at themes of nature, mythology, or a dreamlike state, but maybe it’s also about the process of seeing and the way artists create worlds. Much like Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Campendonk explored this direct method of working, but imbued the pieces with symbolism. Art is not just about what you see, but what you feel and imagine.