Norman Lewis (1909 – 1979)
Rocky Coastlines, 1954
Graphite, Pen & Ink on Paper
20 x 26 in.
When frustrated or tired with the commotion and troubles of New York, Norman Lewis found solace in the openness of Block Island’s pastoral seascape. Most urban dwellers know how important time away from the city is and Lewis’ vacations were a great source of peace and inspiration for him. He created series of coastal works, some capturing the blues, browns and greens of the fresh waters and others, like Rocky Coastlines, that evoke tender sentiments from a simple monotone outline. Lewis’ particular technique of smudging the graphite and ink all the way down his austere silhouette of a rocky shore adds a quality of coarse rawness, allowing you to feel the presence of his touch and artistry in a way that is organic, similar to the way harsh waves shape the rocks of a coast. This 20 x 26 inch work will command any area it is placed in with it’s elegant simplicity yet abstract nature.