Pursuit 1921

Dean Cornwell created this oil on board painting of a street scene in an unknown location. Cornwell was trained in illustration, and the techniques he used reflect this background. The thick brushstrokes and muted color palette create a sense of atmosphere and texture. Notice how the paint is applied in visible layers, giving the impression of depth and dimension to the buildings, the cobblestones and the figures. This tactile quality invites us to consider the labor involved in the painting’s creation, and the skilled hand of the artist. As an illustrator, Cornwell had to produce works quickly and efficiently, often working to tight deadlines and budgets. Yet he also brought a sense of artistry and craft to his commercial work, elevating it beyond mere reproduction. By focusing on the materiality of the painting, we can appreciate the skill and dedication that Cornwell brought to his work, challenging traditional distinctions between commercial art and fine art.