Train Station

Walter Ellison

Created:
Movement:
1935
Harlem Renaissance
key Notes:
Great Migration, vibrant depiction
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Dimensions:
20 × 36 cm (8 × 14 in.)
medium:
Oil on cardboard
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Train Station" by Walter Ellison is a notable work that reflects the artist's engagement with American urban life during the mid-20th century. Ellison, an American painter active from 1899 to 1977, is recognized for his depictions of everyday scenes, often infused with a sense of movement and dynamism. The painting captures the bustling atmosphere of a train station, a significant site of transit and social interaction in American culture. The composition likely emphasizes the architectural elements of the station, as well as the figures of travelers, conveying a narrative of departure and arrival. Ellison's style is characterized by a blend of realism and impressionistic techniques, which may be evident in the treatment of light and color within the work. The exact date of creation for "Train Station" remains unspecified, but it is representative of the themes prevalent in Ellison's oeuvre during his active years. The painting contributes to the broader discourse on American regionalism and the representation of modernity in art.

Description of the work:

"Train Station" by Walter Ellison is an oil painting on cardboard that captures the dynamic atmosphere of a bustling transportation hub. The composition features a central perspective that draws the viewer's eye toward the train platform, where figures are depicted in various states of movement and interaction. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth, highlighting the architectural elements of the station, such as the arched windows and structural supports. Ellison employs a muted color palette, with earthy tones predominating, which evokes a sense of nostalgia and realism. The brushwork is varied, with some areas exhibiting fine detail while others are more loosely rendered, contributing to the overall sense of activity and urgency within the scene. The figures are stylized yet recognizable, reflecting the social dynamics of the time, as they engage with their surroundings and each other. The painting encapsulates the essence of mid-20th-century American life, emphasizing the significance of rail travel in that era.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Train Station