Sunday, January 24, 2010

BURCHFIELD AND HOPPER

Here are a couple of paintings by Burchfield and Hopper. Both paintings have a three dimensional, almost sculptural quality which is typical of the work of both Burchfield and Hopper. Both artists achieve depth and richness of color through a careful build-up from an unsaturated base (umber oil underpainting in the Hopper and grey watercolor base in the Burchfield). Both Burchfield and Hopper simplify and idealize their subjects and characteristically emphasize form through strong shadows and the use of the darkest blacks. Most importantly, they create images that effectively transport the viewer to places and moods that his mind might like to visit, if only for a moment. These are much the same qualities that I try to achieve in my work and why I so love the paintings of both artists.