Yachting Girl

Yachting Girl by Winslow Homer, created in 1880, is a masterful example of American draftsmanship during the period 1876 to 1900. Classified as a drawing, the work demonstrates Homer’s sophisticated handling of mixed media, executed on buff laid paper mounted on fabric. He employed black crayon, graphite, and black ink to define the form and outlines, strategically applying white gouache with a brush to create vivid highlights, defining the light catching the girl’s sailor hat and attire. This combination of dry and wet media results in a powerful tonal study, revealing the subtle textures of the clothing and the intensity of the gaze.

Homer frequently focused on scenes of American leisure and the sea during the late 19th century, with a particular interest in depicting strong, self-possessed female figures. Although the identity of the young woman remains generalized, the portrait is characteristic of the artist's ability to imbue his subjects with character and dignity through careful attention to posture and costume. The piece precedes Homer's definitive move to his coastal studio at Prout’s Neck, Maine, but reflects his growing focus on maritime life and the elemental forces of the Atlantic, subjects which would solidify his legacy as a preeminent American realist.

This important drawing resides in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, serving as a critical example of Homer’s technical versatility outside of oil painting. Works such as Yachting Girl provide essential insight into the artist’s process and his mastery of conveying atmosphere and form using limited color. Given the work's historical importance and age, it has entered the public domain, allowing for the widespread study and enjoyment of its composition. High-quality prints of this seminal work continue to be reproduced, ensuring its continued influence on art history and appreciation.