Winslow HomerSnap the Whip (1872)

Winslow

HomerBorn in 1836 in Boston, Mass.

His mother was his first teacher. She taught him using watercolors.

Early in his career he worked as a magazine illustrator.

Became an important American painter.

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Winslow Homer is know for his straight forward style. He is considered a “Realist”. His subjects are often seen interacting with nature. He loved the sea, and his seascapes are the most popular and famous of his work.

Winslow Homer was a very technically accomplished artist. He worked primarily in oil and watercolor. He rarely went anywhere without having his paper and watercolor paints.

Winslow Homer traveled a great deal. He spent time working in England, France, Cuba, and the Bahamas. Those locations influenced much of his work.

He also traveled throughout the United States. His primary studio was in Maine. His love of nature and simple, rural life are featured heavily in his work.

Winslow Homer is considered one of the most important American painters of the 19th century. His work and style have influenced many other American artists.

Snap the Whip• What are the boys doing?

• What colors did Homer use?

• What do the colors tell you about the weather?

• Does this painting help you understand what it feels like to play “Snap the Whip”? Why or why not?