Breezing Up

"Breezing Up" by Winslow Homer, created in 1879, is a significant example of American draughtsmanship from the late 19th century. Classified as a drawing, this preparatory study was executed using graphite, skillfully highlighted with both black crayon and white chalk on wove paper. This careful combination of dry media allowed Homer to achieve a striking blend of detail and atmospheric effect, crucial for capturing the dynamic turbulence of a maritime setting.

Homer employed dramatic contrasts in light and shadow, using the white chalk to emphasize the sunlight catching the sails and the spray generated by the choppy water. In contrast, the black crayon provides essential definition and weight to the human figures and the small fishing vessel struggling against the waves. This meticulous application suggests a deep focus on capturing the immediate experience of sailing. Though often associated with his iconic oil painting (completed shortly thereafter), this particular piece stands as a powerful, independent artistic statement, demonstrating the artist’s mastery of line and tone before the application of paint.

The years between 1876 to 1900 marked a crucial phase in American art, characterized by a turn toward realism and naturalistic interpretations of everyday life, especially regarding man’s relationship with the ocean—a subject Homer frequently explored during his mature career. This work is essential for scholars studying the artist’s process and his transition from illustration to fine art composition. The piece is housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, where it contributes to the comprehensive representation of 19th-century American works on paper. Due to its historical importance and broad appeal, high-quality prints and reproductions of this drawing often circulate within the public domain, further cementing Homer’s legacy as a preeminent figure in art history.