Why is Winslow Homer important?
Winslow Homer, an American painter in the 19th century, was a true master of landscapes and marine scenes. He is still thought to be one of the most distinguished painters of his time.
The first America’s post-God landscape painter
Winslow Homer was the first after the Civil War to reverse the balance of religion vs humans in paintings. His painting subject were real people — workmen, hunters, farmers, and villagers. Nature was present, and real — measureable.
Master of watercolour
Homer was working mainly in watercolour, especially in his later career. This technique lended itself to beign perfect for his down to earth subjects and adding a depth of feeling.
Self taught experimentator
Largely self-taught, Winslow Homer worked on various techniques, such as commercial illustrating, oil painting printmaking, and watercolour. A master of many, he wasn’t well recognised during his life, but became a recognised leading American painter after his passing.
