Contrasting Moods of Two Paintings essays

Contrasting Moods of Two Paintings essays When analyzing Julian Alden Weirs Portrait of Alexander Webb Weir and Thomas Wilmer Dewings Green and Gold, one notices the color and the texture of the brushwork and the compositions of the figures define the contrasting moods of these two pieces. The position and expressions of the figures and the use of color and painting styles are the main differences between the two works of art. The poses of the figures in each painting portray the paintings mood. Even at first glance, the two paintings reveal their contrasting moods. Weirs large, stiff figure appears to be more aggressive compared to the small, relaxed figure in Dewings painting. The figure in Green and Gold stands relaxed, with her hand on her hip and not making any eye contact with the viewer. These characteristics of Green and Gold force the painting to be calm and peaceful. While the Portrait of Alexander is intimidating; he sits stiff with his hands crossed on his lap, staring straight at the viewer. Although the figure in Portrait of Alexander is constrained, the brushwork in the background is chaotic to the point where the objects are hard to make out. This background contrasts greatly with Green and Gold. Dewings background is blank; the colors of the background actually start to blend with the colors towards the bottom of the womans gown. The painting styles of Weir and Dewing contrast greatly to give each painting a unique mood. The subtle colors of Green and Gold are used to show the movement of the womans gown rather than using the brushwork to show movement. The colors are blended together throughout Dewings painting to make a smooth texture. Weirs brushwork is careless to the point that its distracting from the objects in the painting. Weirs painting style appears to be much more forceful than Dewings. The painting styles and the composition of the figures in th...