View of Lake Léman at Nyon 1875

Editor: So, this is "View of Lake Léman at Nyon" by Johan Barthold Jongkind, painted in 1875. Looking at it, I get this really calm, almost dreamy feeling. The colours are so soft and washy; how do you interpret this work? Curator: Oh, I get that "calm" vibe, absolutely. But for me, it’s more like a poignant memory being conjured up. Jongkind was a real master of atmosphere, wasn't he? Notice how the light seems to cling to the water and the buildings. It's not just a picture of a lake; it’s the *feeling* of a place. I wonder if Jongkind found some solace in places that are so quiet? What do you think the boats add to the composition? Editor: I think they add a sense of life and movement, that quiet bustling. Without the boats, it may be "too" serene, like the "Mary Celeste." I mean, the reflection on the water…It’s really mesmerizing, isn't it? Curator: Exactly! It’s that tension between stillness and activity. And those reflections, my goodness, he’s capturing the soul of the place. Water, particularly reflective surfaces of water can give such dimension and also add that reflective notion of memory. It feels almost like a dream he’s trying to capture. Editor: I see it! Thanks. The idea of capturing that almost dreamlike impression changes everything for me. I appreciate his work much more, now! Curator: Absolutely, it’s an artist quietly showing off his dreamscape; an almost internal view through his mind’s eye. It certainly sticks with you.