Charles Burchfield - An American Original

Charles Burchfield - Ohio River Shanty - 1930 - Watercolor, gouache and pencil - 21 x 30 in. - The Phillips Collection - Washington, D.C. (click photo for larger image)American artist Charles Burchfield (1893-1967) was devoted to painting the small towns, industrial cities, and rolling hills of the Midwest. Initially inspired by nature, he later turned to creating realistic paintings of worn-down buildings and grimy streets in midwestern towns. Reflecting nostalgia for times past, these paintings portray a disillusioned America facing hard times. Like those of his contemporary, Edward Hopper (discussed elsewhere on What About Art?), Burchfield's images won praise for capturing the spirit of America.

In 1943 Burchfield returned to nature as his subject, creating imaginary landscapes that celebrate the seasons and the miracle of growth. He is considered among the most original watercolorists of the 20th century.