Geäst (Branches) 1955

Here's a print by Gerhard Hoehme, made sometime in the 20th century, with broad gestures in red and grey. Imagine Hoehme in his studio, layering these marks, one over the other, trying to find a structure or pattern that works. I sympathize with the artist here. It's hard to make a painting sometimes! What was he thinking when he made it? Maybe he was considering the way branches reach and tangle, creating an image that's both chaotic and organized. I like the way the red paint drips down, suggesting a sense of movement and energy. It's like he's capturing the essence of nature, but in a totally abstract way. You can see the influence of abstract expressionism in his work, but he's also doing his own thing, pushing the boundaries of what painting can be. It reminds me of some of my own paintings, where I'm trying to find a balance between control and chance. These artists are always in conversation, aren’t they? It’s an exchange of ideas across time, inspiring each other’s creativity. The painting is open-ended, inviting us to bring our own experiences and interpretations to the work.