Fly-fishing c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Samuel Howitt’s "Fly-fishing." It's captivating how the figures are dwarfed by the dramatic landscape and the waterfall. What can you tell us about the society reflected in this artwork? Curator: Consider the rise of leisure activities among the British upper class at this time. Fly-fishing evolved from a means of survival to a sport, a status symbol even, depicted here. How might access to nature itself become a marker of social standing? Editor: So, the image isn't just about fishing, but also about who has the privilege to enjoy this kind of leisure. Curator: Exactly. The print's wide distribution also played a role, popularizing an image of nature as a domain for the elite. Editor: That adds a whole layer to what I initially saw! Curator: Indeed, it reveals how art shapes our perceptions and reinforces social norms.