Seascape with Breaking Waves (from Sketchbook VII) 1886

William Trost Richards made this seascape drawing with graphite on paper, capturing the untamed energy of the ocean. The breaking wave, a powerful symbol, surges forward, evoking both awe and a sense of the sublime. Consider how this motif of the wave echoes through art history. We see it in the iconic "Great Wave" by Hokusai, where the wave threatens to engulf boats. Both works tap into a primal fear and respect for nature's force. The wave is more than just water; it's a symbol of life's flux, its relentless energy, and its capacity for both creation and destruction. Like a recurring dream, this symbol resurfaces across cultures and eras, each time carrying echoes of its past meanings, yet molded by new experiences. The psychological impact of the wave lies in its ability to stir deep-seated emotions, reminding us of our vulnerability and the awesome power of the natural world. The wave embodies the cyclical nature of existence, forever crashing, receding, and building anew.