Bulto c. 1938

Carl O'Bergh made this ‘Bulto’ out of watercolor and graphite on paper. The colors are muted, earthy – like pigments you might find in nature - and it’s clear that O'Bergh is interested in artmaking as a process. Look at the way the figure is constructed from simple shapes, with an emphasis on form and texture. It’s a quiet work, and the layering of color creates a sense of depth. The physicality of the medium is evident in the visible brushstrokes and the way the graphite outlines the form. The paint is applied in thin washes, allowing the texture of the paper to show through, adding to the overall tactile experience. The marks and gestures in this piece give us a feeling of the human touch. This piece reminds me of Milton Avery's simplified forms, and it shares a similar sensibility. Art is an ongoing conversation.