Wych Street
1877
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1877
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Wych Street is a 1877 ink by James McNeill Whistler, a Impressionism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows three tall, narrow buildings with steep roofs. The middle one has a small balcony and a window with shutters. The buildings lean in slightly, like they’re crowding each other. On the right, a skinny tree branch juts into the frame, and a bird flies past. The artist used quick, dark lines to show texture—notice how the shingles and window frames look almost scratched in. This style makes the buildings feel rough and real. Next, check out etching to see how artists like this create deep, layered lines.
