This November, we're celebrating the season of gratitude with a journey through art! Let's explore famous artworks related to the US Thanksgiving tradition as well as art that holds strong themes of gratitude. Join us as we appreciate and reflect on the power of gratitude through the lens of art!
We kick off with Doris Lee's 'Thanksgiving', a busy scene of women preparing a Thanksgiving feast, capturing themes of Thanksgiving, rural customs, and family life, which Lee painted in a folksy manner. 'Thanksgiving' has been recognised as one of the most popular nostalgic views of the American holiday since it was created in the 1930s.
"The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.” — Friedrich Nietzsche
Claude Monet painted a true symbol of the American holiday - turkeys! Monet was a true pioneer of Impressionism. His painting shows a flock of turkeys on the grounds of the Chateau of Rottenburg in Montgeron which was commissioned by the owner of the estate.
“Gratitude is heaven itself.” - William Blake
Vincent Van Gogh's iconic sunflower paintings held a special place in Van Gogh's heart, symbolising gratitude. Van Gogh gifted one of his sunflower paintings to his friend Paul Gauguin at the Yellow House. Gauguin was captivated by the sunflowers, and one of these unique pieces is now in the Van Gogh Museum.
“The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.” — Friedrich Nietzsche
Norman Rockwell's famous Freedom from Want is one of the best-known paintings of the 20th century. No matter what era we live in, Freedom from Want is a timeless reminder of the importance of having the basic human necessities to survive and thrive and serves as a reminder of the importance of family togetherness, peace, and plenty.
Sticking with the symbolism of the dinner table, we take a look at the incredible installation 'The Dinner Party' by feminist artist Judy Chicago. 'The Dinner Party' honours powerful women, with each place setting commemorating an important woman from history. We are grateful for Judy and for all of the important women in history!
(Credit: Stan Honda / AFP / Getty)
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” - Grayson Perry
We are counting down the days to Christmas and we can't wait to share our next blog post which will focus on this festive theme! In the meantime, let's keep celebrating the different forms of art that express messages of thankfulness and gratitude. Let's keep showing appreciation for all the stunning artwork around us!