Andrew Wyeth's Abstract Paintings.

We normally think of Andrew Wyeth as the detail guy, right? Blades of grass disappearing into the distance in tiny strokes of egg tempera. Now a lot of his work presents a powerful narrative. But many of the landscapes express a dramatic use of abstract value masses. Often with that expression of value masses almost the reason for the painting. They give us a rich, iconic, stripped-away vision of the land.
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[@vickyvictoria4u]

You remind me of those caring teachers that I had in school that would inspire me to do my best. 😊

[@mary-chrishines9391]

I just read this on Wikipedia then saw this video! You are spot on, as usual! "In a Life magazine article in 1965, Wyeth said that although he was thought of as a realist, he thought of himself as an abstractionist: 'My people, my objects breathe in a different way: there's another core-an excitement that's definitely abstract. My God, when you really begin to peer into something, a simple object, and realize the profound meaning of that thing-if you have an emotion about it, there's no end.' "

[@janemikas8858]

I purchased your book around 10 years ago, and it's a nice surprise to see you here on KZbin in the flesh. Thanks for the important lessons on design.

[@anjou6497]

I've always loved Andew Wyeth's paintings...his subtly of tones, sometimes nearly monochrome, and his gift of expressing the sheer power of light, of sunlight on grass, on snow, on a sheet blowing on a washing line. 😊🍂🍃🌿🌾

[@mariannep1950]

I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your Tuesday mornings and your thoughtful take on art and life. Thank you.

[@AinoShperber]

I totally echo the same sentiments. You are so eloquent and have always an interesting perspective. Thank you for sharing.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Marianne, I really appreciate your telling me you enjoy them. Makes it more worthwhile. With best wishes, Ian.

[@ClariceAust]

I so enjoyed this one in particular. I've been in the process of learning to paint for the last 4 yrs, now that I no longer work 9 to 5. I've also been exploring great painters during this time, as well. Thanks for articulating so well what it is about Wyeth. I knew he was different, and that I really liked his work a lot - but I didn't know anything beyond that. Now I know what that unusual and distinctive characteristic of his work is all about. I also now know that a work can be abstract, but also contain great detail. I might have taken years to realize these things, if ever, so thanks very much.

[@marthamackenzie7011]

I am extremely glad that I found your channel. Great, honest, knowledgeable content:)

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

That is great Martha. Glad you are found the videos.

[@rembeadgc]

Thanks for shining a light on an often overlooked aspect of one of my favorite painter's work. I'm actually a photographer but I'm deeply drawn to Wyeth's highly detailed yet often abstracted paintings with, as you said, striking shapes and forms which by themselves can seem void of strict references but which still seem to represent something even deeper than the obvious. Thanks.

[@anjou6497]

Ahh, yes Wyeth's work is breathtaking. 😊👍

[@pleinaire8698]

YES!!! I have several spots here on the eastern front of the Sierras I call my Wyeth paintings!! they usually involve low afternoon light water/mountains reflections...sometimes cattle..very simplified!!

[@108bhavani]

Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou learning so much about composition from you.

[@neilo2323]

I hadn’t heard of Wyeth before watch this but what a wonderful artist! His paintings are like the visual equivalent of a John Updike book.

[@yvonnegeelen6571]

Wow love how you make me look at the world .....I am going to look with new eyes ....for things to paint Thankyou

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Now that is a good take away. Good for you. Best, Ian

[@AleadaA]

Such a good lesson - the thing about Wyeth's compositional choices and works in general are how they evoke so much feeling in people who take the time to feel and are capable of a response to visual emotion. I believe this can be developed. The movie industries camera work, particularly modern films, often are very creative in producing great compositions. Being aware of this is a great way to improve your intuitive approach to composition.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are right about film. I recently watched The Dig and over and over in that film I was struck by how beautiful the compositions were, shot by shot. And how that helped create the feeling in the movie. Glad you enjoyed the video. With best wishes.

[@solea59]

I bought a book of his paintings, unfortunately I lent it to somebody who never returned it. I must buy another, and will keep it alongside yours Ian. I recently stayed in Wales at my brother in laws house and I took photos of a simple hillside from his window that I want to paint using your guidance 👍

[@grandpa_eric]

I had issues painting and learning from professors in fine art school in the 70s because abstract expressionism as taught was empty. Meaning it was expression abstracted from nothing. After 3 years of that at 2 different colleges, I found a 3rd college where the fundamentals, academics, a basis for abstraction from life were taught. What a difference! Studying with active professionals, esteemed artists and illustrators of the day. It made my career and whole being as an artist. I’m appreciative of you, Ian. As your channel is a refresher and inspiration on days too stormy & windy to head outside.

[@orlane219]

Thank you for presenting these stunning paintings of Andrew Wyeth. Very interesting and inspiring and you have the art of telling it.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks Hannah.

[@andrewwebb4635]

Yes! That’s exactly what I like in paintings.that bold pattern of shapes and contrast that catches your eye from across the room. Zoom in, if you must, to details but it is the composition that makes a good painting for me. And that abstract pattern can just as easily be found in ‘modern art’ of course.

[@PARoth2011]

Love love this. When you described your surprise about the size of the barn sink I had a lovely Ah Ha moment about composition. I will be looking at our 2 Wyeth prints much differently.

[@JC-il4or]

Very good. I took that tour but my takeaway was more about the light (in June). It was also a simple farmhouse and pretty stark. Loved his studio too. but the atmosphere and light-ahhhh. You inspire me to go back thru the photos i took to see if i can say in paint what i felt/experienced. Simplification and distillation and shapes!!! Thank you.💙💙💙

[@deepakumar4454]

Hello sir, Your channel is very inspiring and very helping. Can’t thank you enough. Appreciate your way of explaining.

[@Meirecabral]

I really delight watching all your videos, I just can’t stop it and learning... thanks so much for sharing.

[@daveanderson8776]

Thanks Ian , I will definitely do that for my next painting session . You have been so inspiring for me . Thanks again, peace and cheers 🎨😉👍🏼

[@tbrai771]

Thanks a lot sir for your kind elaboration about painting .

[@simonestreeter1518]

This was a very special episode for me. I appreciate so much you sharing the knowledge of these pieces with us, the public. I have had a full year of university level art history, and am a fan of several art channels, but I had no idea of these paintings. They strike me as very photographic, even cinematic, because of the aspect ratio of a few of the first ones. It is about the same as the 'cinemascope' or anamorphic aspect ratio that the Hollywood filmmakers used to show huge landscapes. I wonder how much Wyeth influenced photographers, or if it was the other way around?

[@sharonmatheson5948]

Another perfect lesson.

[@silentwitness9255]

Andrew Wyeth uses subtlety in such powerful ways; a lesson I never want to forget. His line work and use of color, and contrast. Wow, I want to go paint today! I saw one of Wyeth’s drawings on a wall in Virginia. This was 6-7 years ago. The homeowner didn’t know what they had (I was a dish network technician at the time). But I knew immediately that Wyeth drew that wood pile. Then I saw a video of him drawing one day. I thought, where in the world is this guy’s easel? Lol, perhaps he thought, who needs an easel when I was born with a lap.

[@4seaable]

Wow, thanks so much for that moment to stop and think about design in my world!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are most welcome. I'm glad it triggered that stop. All the best, Ian

[@alanmorris4198]

Ian--People here are saying just what I want to say: I too really enjoy your presentations on art and vision, very interesting and definitely hits home with me. Wyeth's work is an inspiration for sure. Be well.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks Alan. Appreciate your letting me know. All the best, Ian.

[@judithlarkin600]

Thanks Ian, for this one in particular. I lived for thirty years just a couple of miles from the Brandywine Museum-Wyeth former stomping grounds and “backyard playground”! I never tire of his work, not just because of his artistic brilliance, but because it feels like “home”. I’m now in Florida, but I do miss the farms, fields, and colors of the Brandywine.

[@jilllong26]

Shapes! Shapes! Thank you Ian.

[@robhead22]

Wonderful!!

[@pleinaire8698]

I use my VIEWFINDER religiously every time I "pleinair paint"!!!! helps me find my Wyeths!!

[@luceplante1865]

Toujours intéressant, motivant, inspirant. Merci

[@GrandmaMuggy]

Thank you for this! It’s a joy to have these videos.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are welcome Joanne.

[@stephaniefindlay120]

Ian I really love the way you introduce other painters. Food for thought! and that is so important in the struggle to find one's own style. A video on this perhaps?

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Tell me more of what you mean, Stéphanie.

[@robhead22]

Youre videos are incredibly inspiring to me! Enjoy the adventure. Thank you!

[@christinerothmuller2597]

Thank you Ian , I am enjoying so much your videos . I love his waters colours !

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

It is amazing how bold he is with watercolor.

[@bambledaczymbledek]

I'm always gratified to see Andrew Wyeth's genius reflected through other sensibilities. I've come away from this deeply humbled as always by Wyeth's art, but this time for his brio rather than his virtuosity. I've been painting in watercolors all my life and he is for me the grandmaster. Thanks for the great lesson.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Not sure I mention it in the video, do I mention Wyeth at Kuerner's. It is great book about his process, drawings, early watercolors as an idea starts to get for a major painting. It is out of print I think but still available used. Glad you liked the video. Best wishes.

[@bambledaczymbledek]

@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition Just ordered a copy. Thanks for the heads-up.

[@georgefrench1907]

Excellent.

[@pamelajohnson8942]

your videos are wonderful ..so much information

[@roman2011]

Amazing paintings.

[@4JoyceDana]

Your Tuesday emails are so thought-provoking. Thank you so much.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Joyce thanks for letting me know you're getting something out them. I appreciate your letting me know. Best wishes, Ian

[@SB-qs9zu]

Thank you, Ian Roberts, the art master and outstanding teacher! (I watched all four videos re abstract paintings. So enlightening,)

[@tedburke8187]

Love his stuff

[@thomasbroderick6388]

Ian, I can't tell you how happy I am to have stumbled across your channel. I have learned so much. I feel pretty proud of myself today because I too have enjoyed the marvelous abstract compositions of the great Andrew Wyeth for years. Thank you my friend for the service you provide so many of us.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Wonderful!

[@ranjanaluwihare1511]

Wonderful insight & soo informative, Thankyou!

[@plantherain]

So appreciated. much love from SA

[@constantinaolstedt]

Enlightening! Thankyou!

[@Tizaheijting]

Yet another truly inspiring video! You teach us to really visualize and feel what we see followed by analyzing and structuring these impressions as a starting point of creation. 'Outsight' becoming 'insight' and at the same time a true and deep connection with the world around us. Txs yet again.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks Patricia.

[@giovannisiano574]

BRILLIANTLY EXPLAINED!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks Giovanni

[@shopley5255]

Thank you. As usual, a very helpful video.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I'm glad you found it helpful. Best wishes, Ian.

[@user-fk6fb1tj5d]

Really enjoying your videos

[@adeliamcsherley8763]

Amazingly Helpful... Thank you...

[@BibleStudyPastor]

Thanks for pointing out Wyeth's design-driven paintings. Excellent!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Ralph. Thanks. Best wishes, Ian.

[@mrfoo12emily]

Thank you, this was really interesting and inspiring. Be safe!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Leslie. Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed it. All the best, Ian.

[@GodwardPodcast]

what a great video. Thanks

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks so much.

[@ngocthaodrawing]

Thank you and best wishes to you

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Same to you!

[@stephenjablonsky1941]

The Wyeth family has given me a great deal of pleasure starting with the books I read as a kid that had NC illustrations. Have we identified the art gene yet?

[@gaylemartin6498]

Hi Ian. This was a very powerful video. I have not seen these Andrew Wyeth paintings. Another eye opening video. Thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks Gayle. Glad you liked it.

[@dumoulin11]

Robert Bateman had very similar things to say about Wyeth, and his own paintings often have that same quality of very strong abstract design with a teeny bit of nature.

[@jerryseaton5239]

Wyeth always considered himself a modern painter You have done a great job describing how and why .Thank you

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Jerry, glad you liked it. He is so good at rendering stuff it can be distracting to the power of his big values masses. All the best.

[@Ratria1]

Ian; l too am a fan of Andrew Wyeth's art, especially his watercolours . He could sure make the odd ,and , sometimes mundane things of life he made come alive to create a strong visual interest, and the final superficial detail work on top of the strong design added to the visual interest.

[@pintorazer6006]

Thank you !

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are welcome. All the best, Ian

[@joseproigalegre2885]

Thanks!

[@bittenandreasen5426]

Thanks a lot for the video :) We have an artist up here in the cold Scandinavia (Sweden) named Lars Lerin. He takes the abstractions a step further. It is very interesting to watch both Wyeth and Lerin, cause I, at least, started looking at nature in quite new ways -- it sort of grew before my eyes, claryfied, magnified, drew me closer !!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Bitten, I just looked up Lars Lerin. Very interesting work. He's got a book too that looks intersting but it doesn't seem to be available here in the US. But this whole idea of seeing the world fresh in a personal way fascinates me. Thanks for mentioning Lars.

[@bittenandreasen5426]

@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition I could find out about the book. Eventurally buy it and make the shop send it to you . It would be no problem except that you maybe would have to pay custom ougggh !

[@constantinaolstedt]

So true! I also noticed that...funny that Lars Lerins water colours are often on very big papers compared to Wyeth's apparently smaller canvases.

[@Skigirl52]

Oh, thank you so much.

[@francoisecottet7662]

Merci, merci beaucoup Ian, As a matter of fact, yesterday I was reading your "Mastering Composition" book, in particular "Gallery of Greats" and discovered Andrew Wyeth's Race Gate watercolor, it was sort of a mystery painting for me. I really appreciate your video, this outstanding exhibition of his works, and to share his talent with us. I will try (at my level) to express a dramatic use of abstract value masses in my next landscape drawing.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I like that, "at my level" which I guess is the reality for all of us. Glad you liked it Francoise.

[@katieharrisartist]

Drawn to your videos by your wordy style and that I love your name (my 3rd son is my Ian) and Wyeth is undeniably my favorite for his mystery and abstraction

[@therifftones2198]

Thx very much

[@susandobson1588]

thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are welcome Susan.

[@dawndavis-lim9659]

Thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're welcome.

[@yenhoff22]

I learn a lot with your videos but I don't know if I'm succeeding. But I am trying. Thank you.

[@dfrozendog3849]

I am an artist. I always have been. While about three years old I began noticing and seeing the relative crystalline form in frost on a window, tree limbs and roots and the veins in our skin. I see a great potential painting in a stack of boxes or a tree root in a ditch. I need to explain something. There is a cabinet above a kitchen island. I cracked my head twice, twice, before it sunk in to be careful when near it. Most would have avoided it to start with. Hitting your gourd once would have been a learning experience. Not me, twice. So what is my point? Form is not an issue but the meshing of color and value is. Old saying is color gets the credit and value does the work. Painting after painting my values are in the middle third of the spectrum. I have not been able to get past it. I am getting old. Far past prime. Not quite toes hanging over the abyss but my candle is getting low. I just, yesterday, found your videos Ian Roberts and have learned, more like absorbed more in a short time than any of the others. The others are good and I picked up a lot but connected to what you are saying. For this I thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Keith I am delighted to hear. Thank you.

[@adamswatercolorli1311]

I am a begainer and I am learning watercolor now. although most of your demo is oil, but your video totolly enlights me and open a window for me, Thanks very much.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I am so glad to hear it Adam. Best of luck.

[@sheenachadwick3217]

You talk so clearly and intelligently and are a joy to listen to and learn from. I have been painting and teaching for over forty years and am delighted to find your videos. I thank you !!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you Sheena. Appreciate your telling.

[@DS40764]

I actually have a print of his the handicapped girl on the hill looking at the house down the field that she called her home. The house looks haunted. Such a powerful picture and he uses only a few colors which are very muted ,but stiil it captures your attention

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

It's a great painting. And as you say subdued color can still say a lot.

[@DS40764]

@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition Yes, that painting tells a story. I believe it shows us how she feels about her life.

[@argeancomics3291]

He is awsome

[@nickfanzo]

Wyeth would’ve been a fantastic photographer too.

[@normanmerrill1241]

Thanks...a light went on...

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Great Norman.

[@raymondrawlings842]

Your comment on how far down the building would reflect at about 3:30 is off. An object reflects down how tall its height is above the level of the water, not how tall the object itself is. With the added height of the hill it would easily reflect down that far. Also, I've noticed time and time again, with surprise, how far below objects I can see reflections in nature.

[@marvinjarboe422]

Yes. Your comment seems right to me. The horizon line behind this hillside seems to me a little hard to establish from the roof lines and the lower the reflection, but the plane of the water extended under the building is quite a bit below the building, which adds an equal amount to where the base of the reflection begins below. That said, Wyeth doesn’t seem to be worried about being photographically precise, just in the ballpark, despite all the beautiful detail.

[@jazw4649]

Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment - Rumi

[@indianahoosier5794]

Andrew Wyeth's work is known for its design aesthetics and what you mention is fantastic. This video would benefit so much if you were to break down his compositions like you have done in many of your own. Break it down and explain more about what makes each painting so great... like verticals, horizontals, diagonals, balance, etc... I am new to your channel but have enjoyed your insight so far... thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I"m delighted you enjoyed the video on Wyeth. You make think that I should do a video one week on maybe three or four historically great masters and analyze their compositions. Because they are always there. All the best.

[@cammurphy2950]

Hi Ian. What is the name of the painting where the barrel is emerging from the shadow inside an open spring house door?

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Springhouse Door, 1971

[@fredpeacock7314]

I'm taking my camera into the woods right now.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You have come a long way with the big shapes of light and dark.

[@Larrym-rz5bk]

Love your videos, but your statement that the building above the pond reflection is impossible doesn't seem right. The pond is at a lower level than the building. If the pond shore was moved horizontally closer to the the view point we would see less and less of the building. Likewise if it were moved closer to the building we would see more. Even if we could see all of the building the reflection would not be adjacent to the building because the pond and the building are on different levels. This can be verified by thinking of angles of incidence and reflection.