Russell Cowles - The Traditionalist

I had the occasion a few days ago to read an article in a old art magazine. I love reading magazines and this one was particularly insightful although it was published some time ago. As I viewed the magazine, I ran across an article on a artist that was previously unknown to me, Russell Cowles.



The article was in the 1945 issue of American Artist Magazine. The article was an interview of artist Russell Cowles by Ernest W. Watson. This article included a personal side of Cowles, examples of some of his work and his view on art.



Russell Cowles states that his work at that time embodied (1) a stronger sense of picture plane and (2) a color approach in flat masses. Cowles is quoted as saying that “When you paint in flat color areas you seek a color equivalent for modeling, achieving the necessary definition for form through line.” The article provides a color illustration, “Autumn Wind” a painting Cowles produced in 1937. Several black-and-white illustrations of paintings by Russell Cowles is also included in this lengthy article.



The author concludes that Cowels is a traditionalist when it comes to “good painting.” Russell Cowels was a traditionalist who continually tried to achieve definition of form through line. I found his work interesting. This artist’s work appeared to be anything but traditional.

www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com