N@tM 2023 Gallery

Photo

A Storm in the Rocky Mountains, Mt. Rosalie

Albert Bierstadt

1866

A row of rocky mountains surrounding a lake in the center. A storm is brewing in the far distance, with a gloomy overcast shadow.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

There are Native Indians minding their own business. They look happy. There is a dead deer from the hunting that recently happened. They are chasing a loose horse. Mostly likely someone forgot to tie the horse. The storm in background will foreshadow the death that will soon be cast upon the Native Indians by the colonists.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The light against the shadow makes the storm stand out within the mountains. The reflection on the lake conveys some clarity. The dark shadows and trees show a gloomy mood.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

This is a very large piece of art and was centered within the room. The soft lighting draws more attention to the individual details of the painting. It is the only painting on this section of the wall, which contributes to its grand appearance and importance.

Group Members

Name (first and last) Campus Seminar 1 Professor
Massimo Turcios, Genesis Araujo, Max Manzi, Sarah Rodriguez The City College of New York Aaron Sloudonik