Ascona (Variation) (Ca. 1919)

Ascona (Variation), a vivid and spellbinding work by Alexej von Jawlensky, immerses its viewers in a fantastical interplay of forms and colors. Painted around 1919, this abstract composition suggests a landscape distilled into its emotional essence rather than a direct depiction of reality.The central feature of this painting appears to be a large, curving form, perhaps symbolic of a tree or a hill, rendered in earthy brown with hints of yellow that could suggest light or foliage. Surrounding this central figure are swathes and dabs of boldly contrasting colors—deep reds, blues, pinks, greens, and blacks—all contributing to a dynamic and lively scene. Each color seems carefully placed to evoke movement and harmony, despite the abstract nature of the work.Von Jawlensky's usage of color in Ascona (Variation) communicates more than just a visual spectacle; it delves into the realm of emotions, invoking feelings that resonate with the intensity of the hues themselves. This painting, like many of his works, straddles the boundary between the observed world and the inner emotional landscapes, asking the viewer to interpret and find personal meaning in the abstract forms.This captivating piece not only showcases von Jawlensky's bold use of color but also reflects his continued exploration into the emotional possibilities of art, making it a remarkable representation of early 20th-century abstraction.