Lelies 1873 - 1932

Wilhelmus Johannes Steenhoff made this watercolour of lilies, and it’s a great example of how artmaking can be a real process. The way Steenhoff uses the paper almost feels like a mist, not quite concealing, but softening what’s beneath. Look at how the paint pools and flows, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere that goes beyond just depicting flowers. There's a real softness to the color scheme, but with these quick expressive, calligraphic lines describing the petals and stems. The magic really happens in the details, the way the water and pigment come together and bleed into each other, creating these soft, hazy edges. It reminds me a little of Morandi and his still lifes, but done with such a light and airy touch. Ultimately, this piece really shows that art isn't about perfection, but about letting the materials do their thing.