Focus on this artwork and analyze the Medium and Technique.
Referred to as "The Great Painting", this 20th century work was created by using oil paints. The technique of glazing, using a varnish over several layers of paint at once helps to achieve the soft glow and whimsical style Parrish is so well known for. Using lighting and natural models to his advantage Parrish is able to depict a serene setting for the two women, while keeping his tone of slightly out of the ordinary and neo-classic style. In looking at the other works from Parrish at the time his constant use of mild lighting and the use of contrasting cool and warm tones, it can be seen that this is how Parrish created his signature style. Like many artists Parrish also makes use of the Golden Ratio; a technique using math that helps frame the pillars and greenery to add the most focus on the two figures in this painting. While Parrish's techniques may have been tedious, almost every single fantasy illustrator you can name borrows from the technique and style of Maxfield Parrish, ensuring that his visions live on.
Maxfield Parrish