Sumac in B.C. Mountains painted by John Kinnear in 1961 is an evocative oil on panel painting, sized 10.5 x 13.5 inches and signed by the artist at the bottom...
Sumac in B.C. Mountains painted by John Kinnear in 1961 is an evocative oil on panel painting, sized 10.5 x 13.5 inches and signed by the artist at the bottom right corner. This work vividly captures the rugged beauty of British Columbia's landscapes, depicted in Kinnear's signature impasto technique which lends a tactile depth to the artwork.
The scene is dominated by a dark, towering structure in the center, which could be a stylized tree or a monument, set against a dramatically sweeping sky of white and grey. The sky appears almost tumultuous, contrasted sharply with the earthy tones of the foreground. This juxtaposition enhances the wild, untamed quality of the landscape.
The foreground is a blaze of color with fiery reds and deep oranges, symbolizing the sumac plants that are native to the area. These warm tones are contrasted against the dark, almost silhouetted forms of trees and vegetation, creating a lively interplay of color and form. The reflection on what appears to be a body of water adds a serene element to the otherwise dynamic composition, inviting the viewer to pause and absorb the natural beauty and the artist's raw, emotional expression.
Overall, this painting is not only a landscape but a powerful emotive portrayal of nature's profound and rugged beauty, encapsulating Kinnear's ability to convey deep feelings and atmospheres through his bold, expressive brushstrokes and rich color palette.