art 176 Bernhard Cutmann

The composition presents a coastal scene dominated by a body of water and a line of trees in the foreground. The artist has chosen a viewpoint that emphasizes the expanse of the water, which occupies roughly two-thirds of the canvas. A distant cityscape rises on the horizon, its forms rendered with an impressionistic looseness, suggesting a bustling urban center viewed from afar.
The trees are arranged in a staggered formation along the left and right edges of the painting, their dark green foliage providing a visual counterpoint to the lighter tones of the water and sky. The trunks appear slender and somewhat stylized, contributing to the overall decorative quality of the work. A small patch of yellow-orange vegetation occupies the lower edge of the composition, anchoring the scene and adding warmth to the palette.
The artist’s technique is characterized by a visible brushstroke and an emphasis on color rather than precise detail. The water surface shimmers with reflections of the sky and cityscape, achieved through short, broken strokes of blue, green, yellow, and white. Similarly, the distant buildings are suggested through dabs and patches of ochre, pink, and grey, creating a sense of atmospheric perspective. Several small sailboats dot the water’s surface, adding a touch of human presence to the otherwise naturalistic setting.
Subtly, there is an interplay between stillness and movement. The trees appear rooted and stable, while the water seems to ripple with unseen currents. This contrast might suggest a meditation on the relationship between permanence and transience, or perhaps a contemplation of natures enduring power in the face of human activity represented by the distant city. The overall effect is one of tranquil observation, inviting the viewer to share in the artist’s appreciation for the beauty of the coastal landscape.