After a Summer Shower 1894

George Inness painted 'After a Summer Shower' using oil on canvas, a traditional material and process for the time. The way Inness layers the paint creates a soft, almost hazy effect, mirroring the atmosphere after a rain. Notice how the texture of the canvas subtly shows through, adding depth to the scene. The muted tones and gentle brushwork give the landscape a dreamy quality, far removed from the realities of agricultural labor. Inness was known for his connection to the Swedenborgian church, a Christian denomination, and often infused his landscapes with spiritual meaning. Consider how the rainbow, a symbol of hope and renewal, emerges from the dark clouds, suggesting a deeper message about nature's beauty. Inness elevates the humble landscape to something profound, connecting the viewer to the divine through the simple act of observing the world around us. By focusing on materials, making and context we start to fully understand this artwork.