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The Building of the Dam by J. Alden Weir

J. Alden Weir · 1908-01-01

J. Alden Weir's *The Building of the Dam*, painted in 1908, might seem like a tranquil landscape, but this oil painting by the American Impressionist sold for over 1.7 million dollars in 2012. It's currently held in a private collection.

The painting quietly captures human industry against a lush natural backdrop. Look closely at the workers meticulously constructing the dam amidst the verdant hillside foliage and the calm water, a testament to both human effort and the beauty of the natural world.

Weir was a prominent figure in American art, a member of the Cos Cob Art Colony and a founding member of "The Ten," a group of artists who sought to exhibit their work independently from established art organizations. This painting exemplifies his Impressionistic style, with its loose brushwork and harmonious palette.

This painting invites us to consider the value we place on art that depicts everyday life and labor. What stories do you see unfolding in this scene?

Details

It shows workers building a dam, integrating nature and labor.
It shows workers building a dam, integrating nature and labor.
The artist's light brushwork gives it an Impressionist feel.
The artist's light brushwork gives it an Impressionist feel.
Their verticality anchors the composition and frames the scene.
Their verticality anchors the composition and frames the scene.
Their presence creates a sense of depth and enclosure.
Their presence creates a sense of depth and enclosure.
Transcript

This painting looks like a quiet, modest landscape. It shows workers building a dam, integrating nature and labor. The painter was a founder of a group called "The Ten." Their goal was to exhibit work without judgment. The artist's light brushwork gives it an Impressionist feel. In 2012, this painting sold for over 1.7 million dollars.