The artwork titled “Greenlanders (Near Godhavn)” was executed by the artist Rockwell Kent in 1932. It is a prime example of American Realism, a movement that aimed to depict subjects in a naturalistic manner, eschewing the embellishments of earlier romanticized styles. This particular piece falls into the genres of landscape and genre painting and is housed at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
In the artwork, one observes a serene and harmonious interaction of human figures with the vast landscape of Greenland. The scene is near Godhavn, capturing the ethereal quality of Arctic light as it casts long shadows and enhances the depth of colors. Kent depicts a group of individuals—most likely locals—gathered on the shoreline overlooking the calm sea, which cradles a few scattered icebergs. The sharp contrast between the warmth of human attire and the cool tones of the sea and icebergs creates a captivating visual dichotomy.
The monumental terrain rises imposingly in the background, with the towering cliff side creating a sense of grandeur and endurance against the pristine sky. The shadows on the cliff and landforms give a layered effect, adding dimension and solidity to the natural edifice. At the same time, the smooth surface of the water presents an almost mirror-like quality, suggesting both peace and isolation in the Arctic environment.
Foreground elements, such as the dogs and the wooden constructs—possibly drying racks for fish—add a touch of domesticity and highlight the life and culture of the Greenlandic people. Rockwell Kent’s masterful use of lighting, composition, and hue imbues the artwork with a sense of majesty and a reverence to the sublime beauty of the northern landscape.
