American watercolor has been a cornerstone of artistic expression since the late 19th century. The Chrysler Museum of Art has embarked on an exciting journey to showcase the heights of the American watercolor movement through its latest exhibition, Watercolor: An American Medium. This extraordinary display of watercolors will take viewers on a captivating journey through the history of this medium, from its origins to its modern interpretations. In the late 19th century, watercolor was a highly sought-after medium by artists. Artists such as John Singer Sargent, Thomas Moran, and William Trost Richards were renowned for their stunning watercolor works that captured the essence of their surroundings. The Chrysler’s exhibition features some of the most remarkable watercolor works by these artists, including paintings by modern artists such as Charles Demuth and Andrew Wyeth. The exhibition also explores the early 20th-century experiments with watercolor, which led to the development of new styles and techniques.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the opportunity to see the Chrysler’s hidden gems. Due to the sensitivity of the watercolors to light, they are only displayed for limited periods to preserve the richness of their color. This exhibition offers a rare chance to view some of the Chrysler’s finest works, including those by John William Hill and John La Farge.
The exhibition features a diverse range of artists, from traditionalists to modernists. The works on display showcase the versatility and exuberance of the watercolor medium. The American watercolor movement was characterized by experimentation and innovation, as artists continually pursued new methods and effects. This is evident in the works of Marguerite Zorach and Hale Woodruff, who pushed the boundaries of traditional watercolor techniques.
Beyond tracing the historical development of watercolor in the United States, the Chrysler’s exhibition explores the various approaches taken by forward-thinking American artists. The works reveal that the American watercolor movement was defined by experimentation and innovation. “The technical achievements and beauty of these watercolors really are astounding,” said Corey Piper, Ph.D., Brock Curator of American Art at the Chrysler. “I hope that visitors to the exhibition will leave not only with a deeper understanding of watercolor’s place in the history of American art but also an appreciation for the versatility, exuberance and delightfulness of the watercolor medium.”
The exhibition is not only a tribute to the artists who have contributed to the development of American watercolor but also a celebration of the medium itself. It highlights the importance of watercolor in the history of American art, from its emergence as a prominent medium in the late 19th century to its continued relevance in contemporary art.
The American watercolor movement was marked by a series of breakthroughs and innovations. The Chrysler’s exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore these developments and their impact on the evolution of American art. The exhibition is a testament to the enduring power of watercolor, which continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike.
For those interested in learning more about the Chrysler Museum of Art, please visit chrysler.org. The exhibition is open from February 21 to June 23, 2019, and is a must-see for anyone interested in American art and watercolor.
In conclusion, the Chrysler Museum of Art’s exhibition, Watercolor: An American Medium, is a unique and captivating journey through the history of American watercolor. It offers a rare opportunity to explore the evolution of this medium and its significance in the history of American art.
The exhibition features the following works from the Chrysler’s collection: