Brushwork is a vital element of an artist's work, acting as a form of chromatic calligraphy that reveals his/her techniques, personality and stylistic approach. Examining a painting closely allows one to grasp whether the artist is methodical or impulsive, whether s/he embraces accidents throughout the creative process or maintains strict control. The texture, layering, and movement of brushstrokes distinguish one artist from another, making direct observation crucial to truly appreciating their work.
Viewing a painting on a screen cannot replicate the experience of seeing it in person, where nuances in colour, depth, and surface texture become apparent. The immersive effect of standing before an original Rothko, for instance, is incomparable to seeing a reproduction. The interaction between the artwork, the surrounding space, and the viewer evokes an emotional response that digital representations cannot achieve. This is why visiting exhibitions and artists' galleries is essential - not just to admire their work but to understand the qualities that set them apart.
Viewing a painting on a screen cannot replicate the experience of seeing it in person, where nuances in colour, depth, and surface texture become apparent. The immersive effect of standing before an original Rothko, for instance, is incomparable to seeing a reproduction. The interaction between the artwork, the surrounding space, and the viewer evokes an emotional response that digital representations cannot achieve. This is why visiting exhibitions and artists' galleries is essential - not just to admire their work but to understand the qualities that set them apart.
Detail from a Van Gogh painting
Detail from a Pollock painting.
Detail from a Rothko painting.