Summer Squall 1904

Winslow Homer made this painting, Summer Squall, in oils, and it’s currently hanging at the Clark Art Institute. I’m drawn to how the grey and green palette creates a mood that's both dramatic and subdued, like a memory of a storm, not the real thing. Looking at the paint itself, you can see Homer’s hand in every brushstroke. It’s thick in places, especially where the waves crash against the rocks. He's not trying to hide the process; instead, he's letting the texture of the paint become part of the story. Notice the way he captures the light on the water. It's almost as if the paint itself is shimmering, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the sea. The small boat bravely battling the elements in the distance invites reflection on humanity's relationship with nature. Homer’s work reminds me of Courbet and his seascapes, each artist capturing the sea’s raw power and beauty. Ultimately, paintings like this remind us that art is an ongoing dialogue, each artist adding their voice to the chorus.