“Crystal Light,” created by Erin Hanson in 2016, is an exemplary piece of expressionist landscape artwork executed in oil. This work of art belongs to the Expressionism movement, which is characterized by the emphasis on representing emotions, moods, and subjective interpretations, typically through bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes.
The artwork portrays a vivid landscape scene, where the colors are used strikingly to depict the ethereal effect of light filtering through tree branches. A mixture of warm and cool hues animates the ground, casting elongated shadows that convey the essence of a sunset or sunrise. The interplay of purples, oranges, and greens creates a vibrant tapestry that brings the landscape to life, while the expressive brushwork imbues the scene with energy and movement, true to the essence of the Expressionist approach. The trees, with their intricate and almost skeletal branches, stretch towards the sky, framing the radiant light that permeates the scene. This artwork stands as a testament to Hanson’s ability to evoke the intrinsic beauty and emotional resonance of natural landscapes.