Faraway by Andrew Wyeth (Interpretation and Analysis)

Faraway
Source: Arthur

There are few artists more quintessentially American than Andrew Wyeth. His art captures twentieth century American life with an undefinable yet vital energy. His paintings typically feature neutral color schemes and deceptively simple compositional choices; however they pack a big emotional punch.

Faraway is a good example of this aspect of his work. The piece depicts a young boy—Wyeth’s son Jamie, who would later become an artist himself—sitting in a field, gazing at something the viewer cannot see. He wears a black coat and a fur cap; he grips his knees as though trying to keep warm. The field itself is full of dry, yellowed grass, which might represent autumn or winter. The sense of cold and barren sterility of the field adds a melancholic air to the piece.

The meaning of the title Faraway is a little unclear; although, it is clear that it holds the secret to understanding this piece. The title could refer to Jamie’s state of mind, referencing his wistful, dreamy expression. Or, it could be something more esoteric. The title might reference a message of calmness and serenity, a separation from the turbulence of the outer world. No matter how you interpret the title, Faraway is an American masterpiece. It is a poignant portrait of American life, and an iconic image of our culture.

Disclaimer: I’m not an art historian or an expert on this topic. The above is my opinion, based on my interpretation of my foreknowledge of art and history. If I’ve done any additional research, I’ll note it above.