Coss Ballance II by Winifred Nicholson

Coss Ballance II

Winifred Nicholson · 1913

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“Stop and look closely at this early work by Winifred Nicholson. It’s a vibrant example of her distinctive use of color and form, balancing delicate graphite with luminous gouache to create a sense of dynamic energy.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

In Winifred Nicholson's "Coss Ballance II," a dynamic interplay of forms and colors unfolds across the paper. The composition centers on a cluster of objects, possibly flowers or abstract shapes, rendered with a vibrant energy that suggests movement and light. The gouache medium, with its opaque and luminous qualities, allows for a rich layering of hues, from soft pastels to more saturated tones. Graphite lines are visible, providing structure and definition, hinting at an underlying drawing that grounds the fluid colors. This work, created early in Nicholson's career, captures a moment of exploration in her approach to still life, moving beyond mere representation to evoke a sense of living presence through color and form.

DETAILS
Artist
Winifred Nicholson
Date
1913
Medium
Gouache with graphite, on ivory wove paper
Location
Art Institute of Chicago
Dimensions
35.3 × 50.4 cm (13 15/16 × 19 7/8 in.)
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Coss Ballance II
01

Observe the delicate graphite lines beneath the gouache.

02

Notice the varying opacity of the colors, from sheer to dense.

03

Look for the subtle shifts in tone that create depth.

04

See how the shapes seem to almost float or dance across the paper.

THE ARTIST

Winifred Nicholson

1893–1981 · United Kingdom

Winifred Nicholson, a British painter, captured the vibrant essence of still lifes and landscapes, often exploring the interplay of light and color.

Read Nicholson’s full story
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