“Near the Sea (aka Shinnecock),” created by William Merritt Chase in 1895, is a notable example of Impressionist landscape painting. The artwork embodies the characteristics of the Impressionist movement, capturing a serene and naturalistic view.
The artwork depicts a tranquil coastal scene, with vast stretches of grassy fields leading up to the distant shoreline. The color palette is dominated by soft, muted tones, with shades of green, brown, and blue seamlessly blending together. The sky above is expansive, with subtle variations of white and blue, evoking a calm, almost ethereal atmosphere. The composition is simple yet profound, inviting viewers to appreciate the quiet beauty of nature. The delicate brushwork and attentiveness to natural light and atmosphere are trademarks of Chase’s Impressionist approach, making this work a captivating representation of the landscapes near Shinnecock.