Été 1923, No. 53 : Illustration de Marc-Luc 1923

This illustration titled 'Été 1923, No. 53' was made by Marc-Luc using what looks like pencil and watercolour. The whole thing is like a very fine drawing, with the light washes of colour adding just the right mood. I’m really drawn to the shadow under the man’s feet. It's this bold, dark shape that almost doesn't fit, but it totally grounds the image. It reminds me how a small, unexpected element can bring a whole composition together. The way it contrasts with the lightness of the rest of the scene creates an intriguing tension. The flat application of color, and simple mark making reminds me a little of Alex Katz. Both artists share a similar commitment to directness and simplicity, reducing forms to their most essential elements, even while creating a mood. For me this piece says that art is all about seeing and feeling. It’s there in the way this illustration captures a moment of summer.