#19393 Marsden Hartley (1877-1943)

The composition presents a stark contrast between a turbulent sky and a landscape rendered in bold, simplified forms. The upper portion is dominated by a deep blue expanse punctuated with large, circular cloud formations – their edges are not soft or diffused but sharply delineated, giving them an almost monumental presence. These shapes appear to float against the intense blue, creating a sense of depth and vastness.
Below this celestial display lies a landscape characterized by undulating hills or peaks, painted in a vibrant red hue. The color is applied with thick brushstrokes, lending texture and physicality to these forms. A horizontal band of reddish-brown separates the land from what appears to be a body of water – a dark, reflective surface that mirrors the colors above, albeit in a muted fashion.
The artist’s use of color is particularly striking. The juxtaposition of the cool blues against the fiery reds generates visual tension and contributes to an overall feeling of unease or drama. Theres a deliberate lack of detail; no foliage, animals, or human presence are visible, which emphasizes the impersonal and almost alien quality of the scene.
The painting’s subtexts suggest a preoccupation with elemental forces – the power of nature, perhaps, or a sense of cosmic isolation. The simplified forms and bold colors could be interpreted as an attempt to convey emotional states rather than representational accuracy. The starkness of the composition evokes a feeling of detachment, hinting at themes of loneliness, introspection, or even foreboding. The absence of any recognizable landmarks or human elements contributes to this sense of universality and timelessness.