Nude Boy with Fish 1916

Here we have Heinrich Campendonk’s “Nude Boy with Fish”, a woodcut print. I love the way the stark contrast between black and white creates such a bold, graphic punch. The woodcut medium itself is so physical, you know? You can almost feel Campendonk carving away at the wood, making these decisive marks. There's this raw energy in the lines, especially in the way the fish are rendered with these simplified, almost cartoonish shapes. Look at the textures he's created, the way he's used little dots and dashes to create a sense of depth and movement. See that circular shape above the figure's head? A sun, a moon, or just a spot? You get to decide. Campendonk’s woodcut reminds me a bit of Paula Modersohn-Becker's early woodcuts, both artists sharing a similar interest in folk art and simplified forms. I think art is always this ongoing conversation between artists, a constant exchange of ideas and inspiration. Ultimately, it's about inviting you to bring your own interpretation to the table.