Artwork

George Gershwin-I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise

George Gershwin-I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise, by Arthur Dove, unspecified, 1927
George Gershwin-I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise, by Arthur Dove, unspecified, 1927

George Gershwin-I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise is an unspecified painting by the American Impressionist artist Arthur Dove. It dates from 1927 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

This painting is titled George Gershwin-I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise.
It was created by Arthur Dove in 1927.
The artist was American, which might have influenced his work, and the title suggests a connection to music, possibly reflecting the artist's interests at the time.
You can learn more about similar styles by looking at the work of Arthur Dove.

Overview

Created in 1927 by American artist Arthur Dove, *George Gershwin—I’ll Build a Stairway to Paradise* is a painting that blends abstract and representational elements, characteristic of Dove's innovative approach to early American modernism.

Subject & Meaning

The title references the American composer George Gershwin and his song, hinting at Dove's fascination with music. The work's abstracted forms may symbolize the intangible, expressive qualities of music, exploring the intersection of visual art and auditory experience.

Technique & Style

Dove utilized mixed media, combining oils with collage elements, to achieve a unique texture and depth. This experimental technique reflects his pioneering role in American abstract painting, while subtle representational hints ground the work in a recognizable, albeit abstracted, subject matter.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, ensuring its preservation and public accessibility since its acquisition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arthur Dove

Artist

Arthur Dove

Arthur Garfield Dove (August 2, 1880 – November 23, 1946) was an American artist.