Sheaves 1915

This painting by Leon Wyczółkowski, simply titled 'Sheaves', appears to have been made outdoors, en plein air, with oil on canvas. Wyczółkowski’s brushstrokes are loose, almost gestural, giving the impression that the painting was completed in one sitting. The physicality of the medium here is so important; you can really see the texture of the paint, particularly in the foreground, where thick, dark browns and greens create a sense of depth. But then your eye is drawn to the stack of sheaves, rendered in warmer, more vibrant yellows and oranges, which stand out against the muted tones of the sky. If you look closely, you can see how Wyczółkowski used short, broken brushstrokes to create the texture of the hay, almost like he's scribbling with paint. You know, I'm reminded of Van Gogh, especially his landscapes. Both artists share a similar approach to capturing the essence of a scene through bold brushwork and colour. Of course, there's no singular way to view art; it's an ongoing conversation and exchange of ideas across time.