“Study For The Barracks” by Horace Pippin, completed in 1945, is an exemplary piece within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This artwork falls under the genre of sketch and study, illustrating a preliminary exploration or preparatory work that delves into the theme of military life.
The artwork portrays a scene within a barracks, where the focus is on the everyday activities of the soldiers. The composition is divided vertically by the wooden beams of the barracks, creating a rhythm and structure to the piece. The soldiers are engaged in quiet activities, which include lighting candles and sewing, suggesting a moment of respite and routine amidst the confines of their quarters. The use of subdued earthy tones permeates the artwork, giving it a grounded and somber atmosphere. The simplicity of forms and directness in the portrayal are characteristic of Pippin’s style, encapsulating the raw and unembellished reality of the depicted scene. The starkness and minimalism of the setting reflect the austere conditions of barrack life, offering a poignant glimpse into the human side of military service.
