Artwork

Rain Drops and Surf

Rain Drops and Surf, by Childe Hassam, ink, 1921
Rain Drops and Surf, by Childe Hassam, ink, 1921

Rain Drops and Surf is an ink print by Childe Hassam. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

'Rain Drops and Surf' is an etching by Childe Hassam, created using black ink on wove paper. The work is a print that showcases the artist's skill in capturing dynamic natural scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a lone figure standing in shallow water with arms raised, set against a dramatic backdrop of crashing waves and a cloudy sky. The scene conveys a sense of tension between the individual and the powerful natural forces surrounding them.

Technique & Style

Hassam employed intricate crosshatching to convey depth and movement in the scene. The density of lines varies, creating texture and emphasizing the turmoil of the water. The etching technique allowed for detailed rendering of the natural elements, highlighting the artist's mastery of line work.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Childe Hassam

Artist

Childe Hassam

Frederick Childe Hassam was an American Impressionist painter, noted for his urban and coastal scenes.

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