“Cooling Off,” created by Jamie Wyeth in 1970, is an exemplary piece of Contemporary Realism executed with watercolor on paper. The artwork, measuring 55.9 by 76.2 cm, is a landscape that portrays an evocative and serene farm setting.
The artwork features the side view of a large barn, distinguished by its dark green hues and weathered appearance. An accumulation of hay or straw, possibly manure, sits prominently in the foreground to the right, while sparse snow covers the ground, denoting a wintry atmosphere. The sense of stillness is amplified by the contrasting textures and subtle colors, which harmoniously blend to convey a moment of tranquility and introspection in a rural environment. The artist’s attention to detail and mastery of watercolor techniques are evident, resulting in a compelling and realistic depiction of a commonplace yet evocative rural scene.
