A well known example of American Realism is Andrew Wyeth. He has a certain "affection" for the objects and people which surround him. These Wyeth records with remarkable likeness, poetic charm, and a "powerful silence". These statements can be applied to both people and still life. I agree with David McCord in his statement in Andrew Wyeth, page 24, "to
that powerful silence one must add enormous stillness."
All of Wyeth's works emit that special poetic charm, but it is best illustrated in his use of water versus the landscape. In River Cove the water sits so still and calm it appears to be dead. The only life visible on the land is a few clam and mussel shells along with the tracks left behind by some local
bird. The only fauna that can be seen is reflection of evergreens in the water.
This painting is hauntingly still with a profound simplicity. …
