Isles of Shoals c. 1890 - 1892

Childe Hassam’s "Isles of Shoals" is made with watercolor paints on paper. At first glance, it seems traditional enough, but think about how these unassuming materials change our perception. Hassam’s quick, loose strokes capture a sense of the rugged coastline and dynamic waves. The fluid nature of watercolor allows for blending colors and creating an impressionistic effect. This would have been seen as radical. The inherent properties of watercolor, its transparency and capacity for expressive washes, let him express the movement of water and light. The paper also plays a role, its texture influencing the paint's absorption and flow, adding depth to the rocky landscape. This artwork offers a window into Hassam's skill in using modest materials to express his artistic vision. It challenges the traditional hierarchies between fine art and craft, reminding us of the value in exploring materials and process.