Arrangement in Blue and Silver - The Great Sea 1885

James McNeill Whistler captured this seascape in watercolor, likely en plein air, a technique that became popular in the mid-19th century. Watercolor lends itself to atmospheric effects, and here Whistler exploits its fluidity to convey the restless energy of the ocean. Notice how the washes of blue and silver suggest both the depth and the shimmering surface of the water. The quick, gestural brushstrokes create a sense of movement, as if we're witnessing a fleeting moment in nature. Whistler was influenced by Japanese prints, which valued simplicity and suggestion over detailed representation. The choice of watercolor, a relatively inexpensive and portable medium, reflects a shift in artistic practice towards greater accessibility and immediacy. Unlike the laborious process of oil painting, watercolor allowed artists to capture their impressions quickly and spontaneously. It is a reminder that materials and making are integral to understanding an artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.