Friday, January 16, 2009

My Love Affair with Andrew Wyeth

A couple of years ago, two of my girlfriends and I decided we needed more culture in our lives. So, every couple of months or so, we have what we call "Culture Day" (except when say it, we say in an "Edith Bunker Voice".... so you have to say it that way in your head when you're reading this, OK? )

We have done lots of cool things that would put our husbands to sleep, and we've seen lots of art.
One of my VERY favorite things we've done so far was go to see the Andrew Wyeth Exhibit at the High Museum in Atlanta. Before we went, I was a "so so" fan of Wyeth. After we came out, I was completely SMITTEN with Wyeth. Completely.

My very favorite painting of his (although it's hard to choose) is "Daydream"... it's from his Helga series. It's at the top of this post.

I would encourage you, if you've never studied his work before, to do so. Or, if you've only seen "Christina's World" (his most famous painting), look at the rest of his work. It's absolutely masterful.

Rest in peace, Andrew.... and thank you so much for the beauty you created for us.
I think you're amazing.

12 comments:

amanda said...

I was so upset to hear he had died... I am fortunate to live in close proximity to the brandywine river museum, a museum on his property... I have 2 of my favorite prints of his in the apartment. Evening at Keurners and Last light. The evening print is simply done in black and white and shows a house with one lit window. He painted it the night Mr Keurner lay dying. It is a lovely piece that becomes more beautiful when you hear the story behind it... Rest in Peace, Andrew, rest in peace.

Gberger said...

Thanks for sharing this - another interesting thing about you!
I found his work to be unlike anyone else's, and so true to itself -- not imitative, or changing to accomodate others. Just his vision. I love that. Thanks for reminding me.

Busy Bee Suz said...

I do love his work also.
that painting on your blog...so lovely. even thought is resembles me. minus the sheathing.

Anonymous said...

hey Trace - a great roadtrip is to the Greenville County Museum of Art. they have an incredible collection of Wyeth. In fact, probably the best. http://www.greenvillemuseum.org/

Anon Anne

HWHL said...

Anon Anne - me you and CMG ought to take a little road trip up there... she loves Wyeth as much as I do. Maybe we should plan that some weekend? 'Twould be fun.

JCK said...

I definitely want to study his work. This piece and the one Cheri posted as ones that I haven't been familiar with.

KingdomWriter said...

Ops, never heard of him. How uncivilized am I?
Just wanted to say how cute your new background looks! Got inspired and changed mine too.

Unknown said...

I thought that was you posing naked for a second and I was taken aback : ). By your bravery!

He lived near me I think. Very close!

Your cultural days sound delightful! I love it! I especially love the Edith Bunker voice. Very classy!

Me said...

Your Edith Voice is hysterical. I read the entire post in with that voice in mind and now I'm going to think of you every time I see All in the Family on reruns. Thank you for that!

HWHL said...

Rebeckah, I almost choked on my soda when I read your comment! LOL! No, my dear, THIS body will not be seen nude on my blog.... I don't think ANYONE wants to see that. LOL. ;-)

Wyeth lived in Chadds Ford, near Philly. The piece I put up on my post is from his Helga collection. Helga was one of his neighbors that he knew quite well (I think it's safe to say...) :)

HWHL said...

Yes, Smiley, when my friends and I decide it's time for "Culture Day" we call one another and say (in perfect Edith Bunker screech) "It's time for Cull Cha Day!" :-)

Unknown said...

I love that she has a stomach. I've been embracing the beautiful curves of a woman, stomach included lately with more vim and vigor (and no, it's not just because I have one, but most women do and I am tired of seeing women not loving themselves, tummy and all.)