The artwork “White Church at Newport” also known as “Church in a New England Village,” was created by the artist Childe Hassam in 1901. It is an example of the Impressionist movement, belonging to the cityscape genre. This piece of art depicts a scene that focuses on a white church, which provides a stark contrast to the vibrant greenery and the bluish hue of the houses around it.
In this painting, Hassam employs quick brush strokes characteristic of Impressionism to evoke a sense of light and atmosphere that enlivens the scene. Rather than capturing every architectural detail, Hassam uses dappled colors and light to suggest shapes and structures. The central white church is the centerpiece, its steeple rising into the sky, surrounded by the rooftops of other buildings. The foreground is abundant with foliage, flowers, and greenery, giving a sense of lush, vibrant life to the village setting. The use of light and shade, as well as the impression of a gentle breeze through the trees and flag, contribute to the painting’s dynamic and inviting quality.