Hellooooo everyone!!! I’m sorry I haven’t blogged all week. Just been immersed in the painting workshop at the New York Academy of Art and trying to gear up for my escape to Martha’s Vineyard. Right now I have about ten minutes to post something for you all and then head off to our last day of the workshop, which has gone wonderfully by the way.
I saw this Winslow Homer painting in the American Wing galleries at the Met. I’m a Homer fan anyway, but this particular painting moved me very much after I read its background and description on the wall text. Given the strained mood of our country right now it seems especially poignant and apropos. From the Met’s curators:
The Veteran in a New Field, 1865
Painted soon after Robert E. Lee’s surrender on April 9th, 1865, and President Lincoln’s assassination five days later, Homer’s canvas depicts an emblematic farmer, revealed to be a Union veteran as well by his discarded jacket and canteen at the lower right. His old-fashioned scythe evokes the Grim Reaper, recalling the war’s harvest of death and expressing grief at Lincoln’s murder. A redemptive feature is the bountiful wheat – a northern crop – which could connote the Union’s victory. Referring to death and life, Homer’s iconic composition offers a powerful meditation on America’s sacrifices and its potential for recovery
Not quite as profound, here is a picture I took of some pigeons hanging out on the ledge on the Fifth Avenue facade of the Met. Oddly, they had no opinion of the Homer or of art in general 
I’m not surprised the pigeons had no opinion on the Homer painting. Pigeons tend to prefer sculpture.
Hahaha, yes they do! Good one Andrew.
Claudia
I must admit you must know your history of the arts and the history of, You are one reckon to your knowledge as a historian.
I also love the still life paintings. I saw this bloke who died over a decade ago name Bob Ross on youtube. I admire his laid back styles. I have done something like that, I hope you are enjoying your vacation. I can also recommend you for a future vacation like Spain or even London. Have a great one luv.
derek,
You are right about my love of history. I studied it in both undergraduate and grad school. That’s probably why this Winslow Homer painting affected me so much. It combines the beauty of Homer’s painting style with a chapter of American history.
I remember Bob Ross! His show aired on public television when I was growing up. He seemed like such a nice man.
It’s great to hear from you Derek. I hope you’re feeling well and enjoying life
Claudia
Thank you luv
I am doing fine , how is your mum?
I hope she is OK and I assume she is still paints or illustrates I bet. Give me her regards from me and a great time off you do need a rest .