Experiencing Nature

Southwestern landscapes place people into stark terrain of vast mesas and towering canyons. As people and animals move through the landscape, all seem to be at one with their surroundings. The warm light and saturated colors capture the deep interconnection between the artist, their subjects, and the land. From the vigorous activity of rabbit hunting to the slow journey of the horse-led wagon in the narrow canyon, nature serves to provide a consoling pleasure.

The quiet serenity of the landscape and direct experience of nature is therapeutic. This genre of art allowed viewers the regenerative calm of the countryside from within their own homes, especially for city dwellers in the midst of restless and ever-expanding cities.

Beginning in the twentieth century, environmental literature, inspired by great landscape art, increasingly emphasized the need to take an active role in preserving nature to be good citizens and stewards. These efforts have inspired generations of Americans who enjoy the beauty and experience of nature and who work to preserve it. The works of art capture the range of emotion from a sense of solitude to exciting adventure.