Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water

James McNeill Whistler

Created:
Movement:
1872
Tonalism
key Notes:
Atmospheric Harmony, Tonal Subtlety
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Dimensions:
51 × 76.7 cm (20 1/16 × 30 3/16 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

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Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water

James McNeill Whistler created "Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water" in 1872, employing oil on canvas to capture the serene and atmospheric qualities of the scene. This work is part of Whistler's "Nocturnes" series, which emphasizes mood and color over detailed representation, reflecting his interest in the aesthetic movement and the idea of "art for art's sake." The painting's subtle use of color and tone exemplifies Whistler's innovative approach to composition and his ability to convey emotion through minimalistic means. Whistler's work had a significant impact on the development of modern art, influencing both the Impressionists and later abstract artists. Born in 1834, Whistler was an American artist who spent much of his career in Europe, where he became a pivotal figure in the transition from traditional to modern art. His emphasis on harmony and composition continues to be celebrated for its contribution to the evolution of visual art.

Description of the work:

Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water

Created in 1872 by James McNeill Whistler, "Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water" is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies Whistler's exploration of mood and atmosphere through a limited color palette and subtle tonal variations. The artwork captures a tranquil, atmospheric view of Southampton Water, reflecting Whistler's interest in the aesthetic movement and his focus on the harmony between color and composition.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Nocturne: Blue and Gold—Southampton Water