Thunderstorm 1918

Alfred William Finch’s “Thunderstorm,” presents a landscape rendered with the familiar materials of oil paint on canvas. What’s interesting here is how Finch has exploited the inherent qualities of his medium. The thick impasto captures the weight and texture of the storm clouds, while the fluid brushstrokes evoke the movement of water and wind. He wasn’t afraid to let the paint do the work, building up layers to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. This direct approach to painting, emphasizing the material qualities of the medium, was very much of its moment. Finch was deeply engaged with social issues, and while this artwork is not overtly political, it does suggest a connection to the lived experience of the landscape, the labor of observing, and the sheer visceral impact of nature. Ultimately, by foregrounding the materiality and making process, Finch challenges us to reconsider the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft. He encourages us to appreciate the skill and artistry involved in capturing a fleeting moment in nature.