Docent’s Corner | Sense of Place
Walter Elmer Schofield (1866-1944), Bodinnick Farm, n.d., Oil on canvas. Alexander Collection, 2014.01.08
Landscapes capture not only our imagination, but also our hearts with the artist’s skillful expression of “place”. Inherently attracted to the sensual beauty of natural vistas, and comforted by the positive emotions of identity and belonging they evoke, we are drawn into intentional relationship with the canvas. Through the gifted manipulation of light and form, the artist invites us to perceive season, time, and terrain in a setting that is relatable, if not familiar to, our own human journey. We become personally invested in the meaning of the painting and our experience is enriched and memorable.
Walter Schofield creates a powerful “sense of place” in “Bodnick’s Farm”, his portrayal of a glorious day in a simple, rural setting. I am immediately captivated by multiple sensory delights. Cheerful summer light contrasts with afternoon shadows at a high elevation. Broad spontaneous brushstrokes convey unrefined textures of stone and wood. There is unmistakable movement in the trees, vibration in the air, and the suggestion of natural rustic scents of soil, fresh-cut firewood, and cold smoke from dormant chimneys. The painting transports me to a “place” of warm childhood memories in a mountain community, evoking feelings of connection and belonging associated with the cherished relationship of people to land. I invite you to experience this rare moment in time, masterfully captured en plein air, which calls me to visit the painting again and again.
This Docent’s Corner is brought to you by Madge Megliola