Landscape 19th-20th century

Editor: This watercolor landscape by Denman Waldo Ross at the Harvard Art Museums has such a dreamy quality. What social or historical context might inform our understanding of this scene? Curator: Consider the gaze implied. Whose landscape is this? Who has the privilege to leisurely depict a scene like this? How does that influence our interpretation, especially regarding land ownership and access? Editor: That's a great point. I hadn't thought about whose perspective is centered here. It adds a layer of complexity. Curator: Precisely! This invites us to critically examine the power dynamics inherent in landscape art and challenge the romanticized notions often associated with it. Editor: It makes you wonder what stories are missing from the frame. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. By questioning the dominant narratives, we can foster a more inclusive understanding of art and history.