AFA Summer 2018

2018 Antiques & Fine Art 101 “Nobody sees a flower—really—it is so small— we haven’t time—and to see takes time.” —Georgia O’Keeffe 1 Charles Sheeler (1883–1965) Pertaining to Yachts and Yachting, 1922 Oil on canvas, 20 x 24 inches. Philadelphia Museum of Art; Bequest of Margaretta S. Hinchman (1955-96-9) Charles Sheeler made several works on the subject of sailing, interpreting the tradition of nautical painting through his own Modern style. A proponent of Precisionism, Sheeler reduced his compositions to streamlined geometric elements, hinting at his subject matter through shapes, lines, and color. Here, he creates the visual essence of a yachting scene, whether for pleasure or competition is unknown. The imagery is emphasized in the vessels’ billowing sails, which cut crisp arcs across the composition. The sails create a repeating pattern, as though they were filled with air. They also appear to merge with the sky, making a connection to the winds that propel the boats through the waves.