American painting and its tradition : $b as represented by Inness, Wyant, Martin, Homer, La Farge, Whistler, Chase, Alexander, Sargent

by John C. Van Dyke

"American Painting and Its Tradition" by John C. Van Dyke is an art history publication written in the early 20th century. This work explores the developments in American art primarily from around 1878 to 1915, focusing on notable artists such as George Inness, Wyant, Martin, Winslow Homer, and Whistler. The book aims to contextualize these artists within a larger tradition of American painting, analyzing their contributions and the shifts in artistic movements during that era. The opening of the book sets the stage for this exploration by discussing the historical context of American painting, which began as an adaptation of European methods. It outlines the transition from a reliance on portraiture and landscape as seen in the Hudson River School to the emergence of a uniquely American voice in art. The preface emphasizes the importance of the nine chosen artists, noting that while they were part of a broader movement, their individual styles were instrumental in shaping American art. The author provides personal insights derived from his experiences during the time, hinting at the deep cultural and artistic influences that informed the work of these pivotal figures.