Deeper Meanings
Why do the houses and landscape share dark colors?
To symbolize the hardship of Christina’s life.
From what state did Wyeth originate from?
Pennsylvania
Do paintings tend to have an even or odd number of subjects?
Odd
In what location did the Olsons live as neighbors to Andrew and Betsy Wyeth?
Farm, Maine, or Cushing.
Was a thin or thick bristled brush used for a majority of the painting?
Thin
Why was Christina’s face not shown in the composition?
So the viewer can better put themself in Christina’s shoes or imagine themself during a time or hardship.
What did Wyeth first begin sketching early on in his career?
Places and people around his Pennsylvania home.
What rule states that an image should be divided into specific portions?
The rule of thirds
What was the actual first name of “Christina” Olson?
Anna.
Why did Wyeth choose lighter colors for Christina’s dress?
To draw the viewer’s attention to the focal point.
What detail did Wyeth include in his painting that suggested the significant struggle that Christina went through?
Firmly gripped hands to show how hard it was for Christina to move.
Which individual taught Wyeth how to paint?
His father
Why did Wyeth paint the sky in bleak grey rather than light blue?
To represent the hardship and bleakness that Christina had to face daily.
What was the name of Christina‘s brother?
Alvaro Olson
What type of paint was used in preparation for the actual image seen today?
Gesso