This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of
Dr. Dan Whitehead
Phyllis R. Grimm
Dr. Joseph & Connie McConaughy
John Ottis Adams, The Close of the Autumn Day, oil on canvas, 1966.136.0000
Journey through the ages of art history as landscapes unfold their timeless narrative, reflecting the evolving dynamics between humanity and its surroundings. Initially, artists immortalized pristine frontiers, capturing the raw beauty of untouched nature and evoking a profound sense of awe. Yet, as the Industrial Revolution unfurled, the landscape genre underwent a profound transformation. Artists depicted the imprint of human progress, portraying bustling cities, smoke-laden factories, and landscapes marred by deforestation and pollution. These artworks served as poignant commentaries, highlighting the consequences of rapid industrial growth and the shifting human-nature relationship.
Charles Francois Daubigny, Small Landscape, oil on canvas, 1968.540.0000
As art progressed into modernity, landscapes became playgrounds for exploration. Impressionists pursued fleeting moments of light and color, while expressionists delved into the emotional depths of nature. Abstraction dismantled traditional representations, enabling artists to convey subjective experiences of the world. In the present day, contemporary artists redefine the landscape genre, grappling with pressing environmental concerns. They delve into sustainability, climate change, and the intricate interplay between humans and nature. By challenging conventions and integrating technology, they blur the boundaries between natural and artificial.
The history of landscapes in art encapsulates the ever-changing perspectives on nature and humanity's impact on the environment. From the pristine frontiers of old to the transformative era of industrialization and the boundless creativity of modernity, artists continually reshape our understanding of landscapes, urging reflection on our intricate relationship with the world that surrounds us.
Georgia O’Keeffe, Mountains to North Lake, New York, oil on canvas, 1966.300.0000A-B