Coast of Sorrento 1858

William Stanley Haseltine’s ‘Coast of Sorrento’ is rendered in graphite and watercolor, presenting a tranquil Italian scene in muted tones. The composition is structured by a stark horizontal division between the sea and the land, countered by the dramatic verticality of the cliffs. The light, almost monochromatic palette, creates a sense of stillness, inviting contemplation on the formal arrangement of shapes and lines. The artist's choice to emphasize the geological forms over vibrant color aligns with a formalist approach, focusing attention on the structure itself. The texture of the rock is carefully delineated. Haseltine seems to engage with a broader artistic concern of how we perceive space and form. By reducing color, he amplifies our awareness of the underlying architectural structure of the natural world. The drawing prompts us to consider how these elemental components interact to produce a sense of place and being. Ultimately, 'Coast of Sorrento' encourages a deeper look into the basic elements of visual expression.