Shady Grove was inspired by the works of Winslow Homer. This particular image was created after a study a watercolor painting of Homer's dating from 1878- Girl Seated on the Hillside Overlooking the Water (Portland Museum of Art). The original painting was painted during a visit to Houghton Farm, the summer home of Lawson and Lucy Valentine in Mountainville, NY.
This image spoke to me as it reminded me of an early morning scene in my own neck of the woods, North Shore Massachusetts. The lush greens and strong trunks give a timeless feel to the composition. My version is a more modern creation, with the incorporation of mark making, abstract line, and mixed media as well as a brighter palette.
Homer was one of the first American artists to use watercolor as a primary medium. During his time, watercolors were used to make studies or sketches from nature, not to create a finished painting. The artist was part of a movement that changed this and brought watercolors to have the respect of collectors and critics that had not previously been afforded to the medium.
Materials:
watercolor, gouache, pastel, and ink on cold-press paper
unframed. Please message me for framing options
Size:
15 x 20 paper size