Santa Fe Landscape 1917

Robert Henri likely painted this landscape in Santa Fe sometime in the early 20th century, using oil on canvas. The painting embodies a sense of place with its portrayal of the unique geographical and atmospheric features of the American Southwest. Henri was a key figure in the Ashcan School, a movement that challenged the conservative traditions of American art by depicting urban life and working-class subjects. In that context, this landscape, painted outside of the city, represents an interesting shift, yet it maintains Henri’s commitment to direct observation and honest representation. The loose brushwork and emphasis on light and color reflect the influence of Impressionism, a progressive movement in its own right. The painting's focus on the natural world can be seen as a reaction against the rapid industrialization and urbanization of American society at the time. To fully understand this work, research into the cultural and artistic climate of early 20th-century America, the history of the Ashcan School, and Henri's broader artistic practice will be helpful.