“Something waits beneath it. The whole story doesn’t show.” ~ Andrew Wyeth

Photo: View of the Brandywine River from the Museum

In the dog days of summer, it’s hard to find the “bony structure” of the Brandywine Valley that was often described and seen in the canvases of the Wyeth Family paintings. The density of trees and leafy greens prevents it. This August the art at the Brandywine River Art Museum was full of contrasts.

Abstract Flash: Unseen Andrew Wyeth exhibit was as stark as the winter landscape in the Brandywine devoid of the lush trees and foliage which is abundant in the summer. The collection is color-limited and as brittle as the gnarled hands of old Man Winter and the tree branches. That is not to say I did not enjoy it. Such is what makes much of Wyeth art distinguishable and identifiable immediately.

Book covers by N.C. Wyeth which are still seen today on many of the classics was also included in the Wyeth art displayed at the museum located in Chadd’s Ford, Pennsylvania, often referred to as “Wyeth country.” This author/book-lover appreciated revisiting many of the images I saw on front covers of the books which sat on my bookshelf in my childhood bedroom.

Mysterious Island by Jules Verne. Book Cover Illustration (1918) by N.C. Wyeth

In the second exhibit, the art of Joseph Stella is in sharp contrast. Saturated with bright color, top to bottom. Nature is seen in a most visionary way – full of energy, both magical and imaginary. Like a tropical floral environment ramped up to the nth degree.

One of many of Joseph Stella’s floral paintings

My stop at the Brandywine River Art Museum was our first in a day filled with art, history and all things fulfilling. My twin sister and I love to see and experience museums and other cultural places together. Do return to this website. I will have more about our visit to the Brandywine Valley in my next post a few days from now.