Artwork

The Derelict, or the Lost Boat

The Derelict, or the Lost Boat, by Arthur Wesley Dow, 1916
The Derelict, or the Lost Boat, by Arthur Wesley Dow, 1916

The Derelict, or the Lost Boat is a print by Arthur Wesley Dow. It dates from 1916 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Derelict, or the Lost Boat is a print by Arthur Wesley Dow, an American artist known for his teaching and innovative approach to art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene scene of an abandoned rowboat, half-submerged in shallow water, evoking a sense of stillness and quiet contemplation.

Technique & Style

Dow created the print using a woodblock, applying layers of soft color to achieve unique, painterly impressions. The flat, sharp-edged style is reminiscent of Japanese prints, which influenced Dow's work.

Context

Dow's experimentation with color and technique reflects his emphasis on the study of line, color, and form, rather than direct observation from nature.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arthur Wesley Dow

Artist

Arthur Wesley Dow

Arthur Wesley Dow (April 6, 1857 – December 13, 1922) was an American painter, printmaker, photographer and an arts educator.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.