Artwork
The Last of New England—The Beginning of New Mexico
The Last of New England—The Beginning of New Mexico is an oil painting by the American Impressionist artist Marsden Hartley. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Last of New England—The Beginning of New Mexico is an oil on paperboard painting depicting a juxtaposition of two landscapes.
Subject & Meaning
The work shows a transition from a New England forest with fallen trees to the golden hills of New Mexico, symbolizing the artist's shift in perspective after spending time in the Southwest.
Technique & Style
Thick black lines are used to define the Southwestern landscape, showcasing the artist's expressive interpretation of the region's natural beauty.
History & Provenance
The artist spent 18 months in the Southwest in 1918–19, seeking rejuvenation in nature and finding inspiration in its vast, untouched landscapes.
Context
The artist's perception of the Southwest as 'uninhabited and unspoiled' reflects a common oversight among artists of the time, who often disregarded the region's rich cultural heritage.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Marsden Hartley was an American Modernist painter, poet, and essayist. Hartley developed his painting abilities by observing Cubist artists in Paris and Berlin.
