The Jacob Lawrence painting, Dreams No. 2, is a vibrant and dynamic artwork that showcases the artist's unique style. Created in 1965, this tempera on fiberboard piece measures 35 3/4 x 24 inches and is part of the collection at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Composition and Style

The painting features a woman sitting in a chair with her head covered by a cloth or mask, surrounded by two other people, one standing and another sitting on a couch. The room has a window that allows natural light to enter, creating an interesting contrast between the brightly colored painting and the darker background. The overall atmosphere of the painting seems to be mysterious or surreal, with the woman's head covered by the cloth or mask adding to this feeling. Light in painting is a crucial element in Dreams No. 2, as it affects the color, texture, and volume of the artwork. The play of light and shadow is the basis of drawing, and its interaction with color is the primordial aspect of painting. As seen in Jacob Lawrence's Dreams No. 2, light can have a symbolic component, especially in relation to the human experience.

Artist and Art Movement

Jacob Lawrence was an American painter who was inspired by the women in his Harlem neighborhood. His work is characterized by its use of geometric forms and vibrant colors. The Lettrism Art Movement, which originated in France, also explored the relationship between art and everyday life. As seen on WahooArt.com, this movement applied its theories to all areas of art and culture.

• The use of color in Dreams No. 2 is reminiscent of the Fauvism art movement, which emphasized bold and vibrant colors.
• The painting's composition and style are also similar to those found in Cubism, as seen on Wikipedia.

Handmade oil paintings reproductions of Dreams No. 2 can be found on WahooArt.com, allowing art lovers to own a piece of this captivating painting.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is home to a diverse collection of artworks, including Dreams No. 2. This painting is a testament to the power of art to capture the human experience and evoke emotions.