Programs
Seminar in American Visual and Material Culture
Monday, May 7, 2001
Winslow Homer and the Nature of Observation
Elizabeth Johns
University of Pennsylvania
Monday, May 7, 2001, at 4:30 p.m.
Elmarion Room, Goddard-Daniels House
190 Salisbury Street, Worcester, Massachusetts
PRCIS: This paper, drawn from the forthcoming book of the same name
(University of California Press, 2002), examines at four major points the
entire course of Homer's life and work, beginning with his wood engraved
illustrations for the popular press and concluding with his oil paintings
of the ocean at Prout's Neck in the last years of Homer's life. The
analysis is framed in the context of the psychosocial theories of
development first explored by Erik Erikson and elaborated by Daniel
Levinson and others, with reference to images made by other artists during
his career and the expectations of American critics. In raising questions
about Homer's personal investments in his images, Johns looks at the
dynamics of Homer's family of origin, his relationships and ambitions
during his middle and late years, and the natural theology that underlay
his paintings of the ocean.
Refreshments will be provided during the discussion of the paper.
Afterwards, a supper, with wine, will be served in the dining room of the
Goddard-Daniels House at $15.00 per person. The entre will be barbecued
chicken and baby back ribs. If you would prefer a vegetarian entre,
please indicate below. If you wish to stay for supper, please send your
check in that amount to arrive at AAS by Thursday, May 3. The Society
regrets that it is unable to make refunds for dinner after that date.
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