Captain SkinnerJacob Lawrence · 1944

  • Art movementCubism
  • Creation date1944
  • Dimensions74.0 x 54.0 cm

Jacob Lawrence (1917 – 2000)

Discover Jacob Lawrence (1917-2000), a pivotal African American artist of the Harlem Renaissance. Known for his 'dynamic cubism' & powerful depictions of Black life, history, and social justice.

Jacob Lawrence was a renowned American artist, and his painting Captain Skinner is a testament to his skill and creativity. Created in 1944, this artwork is a significant piece of American art history. The painting measures 74 x 54 cm and is made on paper, showcasing Lawrence's unique style and technique.

The Story Behind the Painting

Captain Skinner was painted during Jacob Lawrence's time in the U.S. Coast Guard. The captain of his vessel, Lieutenant Commander Carlton Skinner, was the subject of this painting. Lawrence was encouraged to continue painting by his commanding officers, which led to the creation of this masterpiece. The painting features Captain Skinner's face prominently on the left side, while his body is shown on the right side, surrounded by Coast Guard symbols and ships.

Artistic Style and Technique

Jacob Lawrence's style is characterized by his use of bold colors and geometric shapes. In Captain Skinner, he employs a mix of blues and whites to create a sense of depth and dimension. The painting's composition is also noteworthy, with the subject's face and body fragmented and reassembled in a Cubist-like manner. This technique adds to the overall sense of movement and energy in the piece. Key Features of the Painting:
  • The use of blue lenses on Captain Skinner's glasses, giving him an otherworldly appearance
  • The presence of Coast Guard symbols and ships, highlighting the subject's profession
  • The unique composition, which adds to the painting's visual interest
Smithsonian American Art Museum has an extensive collection of Jacob Lawrence's works, including Captain Skinner. At Mus3ums.com, you can find high-quality handmade oil painting reproductions and prints on canvas of this iconic work. Visit our website to explore more artworks by Jacob Lawrence and other famous artists.
For more information on Jacob Lawrence and his works, visit Mus3ums.com. Discover the beauty of handmade oil painting reproductions and experience the magic of art.

About this artwork

  • Title: Captain Skinner
  • Artist: Jacob Lawrence
  • Year: 1944
  • Original dimensions: 74.0 x 54.0 cm
  • Format: Portrait
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Color palette: Dark
  • Keywords: abstract expressionism, jacob lawrence art, dynamic cubism art
  • Color hue: Green to Violet Spectrum
  • Color intensity: Vivid

Questions & Answers

What is the creation date of "Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence?

"Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence was created in 1944.

Which artist is "Captain Skinner" attributed to?

"Captain Skinner" is attributed to Jacob Lawrence.

What stage of Jacob Lawrence's development does "Captain Skinner" represent?

Within Jacob Lawrence's career, "Captain Skinner" falls in the Mature Period. The phase helps compare it with the artist's other works.

What orientation does "Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence have?

"Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence has a portrait format. The format describes the proportions of the composition.

How does "Captain Skinner" balance light and dark?

"Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence is recorded as bright, with a gentle luminance luminance.

What was Jacob Lawrence's age when "Captain Skinner" was created?

Jacob Lawrence was 27 years old when creating "Captain Skinner" in 1944. The age is computed from the artist's birth year, 1917.

What is the color identity of "Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence?

"Captain Skinner" by Jacob Lawrence uses a dark palette, with steel blue (#7b7ad2) as the dominant color.

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