"Magic" Realism and Andrew Wyeth

Building on my research into early forms of realism and the work of Gustave Courbet, I am now researching different approaches to landscape and how various artists have approached the topic. I am influenced by the writings of Simon Sharma, and wish to explore how I can best convey my thoughts on how human existence impacts onto the physical landscape. The American, Andrew Wyeth is a good example.

Realism: Magic Realism

Andrew Wyeth (1917-2009)

In the book, "Andrew Wyeth: Memory and Magic” (Knutson, 2006), Wyeth’s style, influences and methods are examined in a number of essays.

In 1943 there was a landmark exhibition “American Realists and Magic Realists”, devoted to artists who used,

“sharp focus and precise representation, whether the subject has been observed in the outer world -realism, or contrived by the imagination – magic realism.”

 (Quoted in Knutson, 2006 p.35).

“By concentrating on the outward appearance of a deliberately circumscribed environment, Wyeth construes a world that discharges its meaning through the most fleeting and elusive moments”.

(Knutson, 2006, p. 40)

In the examples below, I demonstrate how Wyeth captures the feeling of the coast or estuary in a very realistic way. Using smooth board, fine tempera paints and a muted palette, Wyeth achieves his detailed, evocative paintings. I have included Dryad as the look and feel of the aged wood replicates the character of the driftwood portrayed in some of my recent etchings.

Wyeth’s personal vision, choice of subject matter, and view of the world express his knowledge of, and passion for, Philadelphia and the coast of Maine.

 

Andrew Wyeth, Below Dover, 1950, tempera on panel, Private Collection.

Andrew Wyeth, Pentecost, 1989, tempera on panel, Private Collection

Andrew Wyeth, Dryad, 2007, tempera on panel, Private Collection