He is Risen - The First Easter 1896

Arthur Hughes painted "He is Risen - The First Easter" using oils, a classic medium that allows for rich color and luminosity. Notice how Hughes skillfully layers the paint to create textures, from the smoothness of the angel's form to the rough bark of the trees. The artist uses the inherent qualities of oil paint to imbue the scene with both realism and ethereal beauty. Look closely and you'll see how the careful application of glazes gives the angel its radiant glow. Oil painting, though long associated with fine art, relies on skilled craftsmanship to achieve its effects. Hughes's mastery of this medium enables him to convey not just a religious narrative, but also a deep appreciation for the material qualities of his chosen medium. By embracing both the artistic and craft-based aspects of oil painting, Hughes challenges traditional distinctions between these two worlds, emphasizing the importance of material and making in understanding the full meaning of the artwork.