Although the recessional space appears limited
by the density of trees in the background the psychological perception
of virtual space extends in an upward and side wise directions withing
the pictorial space and is thus greater in expanse than the painting
itself.
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The painting should be looked at stereoscopically
in order for its full virtual space effect to be felt.
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Note the placement of the curved shadows
defining the bank do not follow a logical lighting sequence (a linear
method) - there are not trees that cast such a shadow. Is it therefor
a compositonal requirement that recalls linear principles used to
define the tactile aspect of form.
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The very painterly background sets off the
less painterly trees and their reflections in a gentle foreground
dominant, back-ground subordinate relationship
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Note the lyrical quality given to the lines
used in sketching the tree verticals.
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| This is a very simple composition that effectively
uses a complex of traditional styles in expressing the impressionist
concern with landscape light. |
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summary
modified: 2004 -Jan-30