Self-Portrait in Gray Shirt 1943

Edwin Dickinson’s 1943 “Self-Portrait in Gray Shirt” is a classic example of American Realism. Dickinson’s style focused on simplified forms and muted tones, giving a sense of quiet contemplation. In this work, the artist portrays himself with a contemplative expression, his gaze directed downward. The gray shirt is rendered in soft, muted hues, highlighting the artist’s interest in capturing the subtle play of light and shadow. The subtle textures of the clothing and the background further enhance the sense of realism and create a sense of intimacy between the viewer and the subject.