The American Vision of Winslow Homer: The Harper's Weekly Illustrations

September 1 – December 21, 2012

Considered one of the foremost 19^th century America artists, Winslow Homer (American 1836-1910) began his artistic career as an illustrator. In 1857, he started producing illustrations for Harper’s Weekly, a monthly magazine that highlighted literature, politics, culture, finance and the arts. With dramatic contrasts between light and dark, clean lines and simplified forms, he captured the American scene, characterized by his directness and objectivity to the subject. Homer’s illustrations supplied a rich visual component to the news that also served as an intimate expression of his artistic vision. Soon, advances in photography and other forms of mass media would replace this form of illustration.  

Drawn from the UW Art Museum’s collection, The American Vision of Winslow Homer: The Harper’s Weekly Illustrations spans Homer’s early career and provides an unparalleled glimpse into the 19^th century American experience.

Image: Winslow Homer (American, 1836-1910), Nooning, Harper’s Weekly, August 16, 1873, wood engraving, 9 x 13-3/4 inches, Friends of UW Art Museum Purchase, University of Wyoming Art Museum Collection, 1974.17

Funded in part by UW Art Museum Gala Funds.