The artwork titled “Best Western Study,” created by Eric Fischl in 1983, is a notable example of Contemporary Realism. As a genre painting, it captures a moment of daily life with remarkable attention to detail and emotional depth.
In the artwork, a young boy is depicted kneeling on an outdoor surface near what appears to be a swimming pool, set against the backdrop of a nighttime scene. The boy, absorbed in his task, holds several oranges, with more scattered around him. The dark and lush foliage in the background contrasts sharply with the illuminated water of the pool and the boy’s fair hair and white shirt, creating a compelling juxtaposition of light and shadow. The careful positioning and thoughtful expression of the boy evoke a sense of introspection and quiet contemplation, elements characteristic of Fischl’s exploration of suburban narratives. The use of bold colors and realistic depiction aligns the piece firmly within the Contemporary Realism movement, offering a rich, narrative-driven image that invites viewers to delve deeper into the underlying story and emotional undertones.