An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
At the Springc. 1895
Artist: Nicholas Richard Brewer
American, 1857–1949
woman bent over running trough of water with child on the other side and toy sailboat between them floating on the water; in hilly landscape; ornate carved frame
19 1/2 x 23 1/2 in. (49.53 x 59.69 cm) (image)
29 3/4 x 33 3/4 in. (75.57 x 85.73 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on canvas
Painting
United States
19th century
Gift of Rob P. Stock in memory of his parents, Philip E. and Mary C. (Mathewson) Stock
Nicholas Brewer is often remembered for his remarkable skill as a portraitist, capturing the essence of prominent figures in his time. But when the sun dipped below the horizon and the world grew quiet, Brewer's brush took a different path. In the solace of his own moments, he found solace not in the grandiosity of illustrious faces, but in the humble beauty of landscapes and tender family scenes, where the familiar warmth of home enveloped him.
A piece entitled "At the Spring" emerges from this quieter realm, an intimate glimpse into Brewer's life around 1895. Though the exact location remains a mystery, one can almost hear the gentle rustle of leaves in some rustic Minnesota setting, where Brewer and his family found joy amidst the simplicity of farm life in Stacy. The soft palette and masterful technique resonate with a sense of nostalgia, evoking a time when laughter filled the air and his wife and their sons—their presence almost tangible—brought the canvas to life. It's believed that here, in this tranquil moment, one can see the unmistakable likenesses of his beloved family; their bonds woven tightly like the greenery that surrounds them.
Born in High Forest, Olmstead County, Minnesota, Brewer's journey as an artist began in the bustling streets of St. Paul before leading him to the vibrant art scene of New York. His talent flourished, and between 1910 and 1940, he painted portraits for several illustrious figures, including Presidents Grover Cleveland and Franklin Roosevelt. Musicians like Ignace Paderewski and various governors sought his brush to capture their legacy.
Yet, even amid success and accolades, the true heartbeat of Brewer's art lay in those cherished moments with his family—the serenity of "At the Spring" tells us this truth. It speaks of the quiet joy, the laughter shared in the sunlit corners of their lives, and a love that transcended the canvas. This is the legacy that stays with us, reminding us that within the world of grand portraits, there exists a simpler, yet profoundly profound, story waiting to be told.
About the artist
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