Self portraits “Joseph Stella”

What kind of emotions do you see?

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Stella displayed a natural ability to draw. He studied at the Art Students League in 1897 and

later at the New York School of Art.

Muro Lucano Naples

Rome

Italy Joseph Stella was born in a small mountain village by the name of

Muro Lucano near Naples, Italy on June 13, 1877.

Charcoal Drawing of Steel Mill in Pittsburgh

This was one of many commissioned drawings of Pittsburgh steel mill workers and miners for The Survey (1909-14). The working class was a subject he

took great interest in. One example was when he was sent out to illustrate a mine disaster in Monongah, West Virginia where he was troubled by the devastation

of human life. His drawings help bring to light the need for better mining safety laws.

“Painters Row” Spring 1908

“As Men See America I”

“Italian Leader”

The “Hole In The Wall”

A miners or steel workers living conditions.

“Smoke Stack” 1935-36

In 1909 Stella returned to Europe and was exposed to the influential Modern art of the Cubist and Futurist.

“Battle of Lights, Coney Island” c.1913-14

A depiction of modern American culture and painting of the jazz scene.

“Old Brooklyn Bridge” Stella was fascinated with the modern technology

of New York City. His favorite was the Brooklyn Bridge with its sweeping cables, glittering lights,

and grand views. Stella made six paintings of this bridge.

Battle of Lights, Mardi Gras, Coney Island 1913-14

Gift Collection Societe Anonyme 1941-689

The Brooklyn Bridge (The Bridge), from Voice of the City of New York

Interpreted, 1920-1922

Joseph Stella-”I used the intact purity of the vermillion to accentuate the carnal frenzy of the new bacchanal and all the acidity of the lemon yellow for the dazzling lights storming all around.”

Stella is most famous for New York Interpreted, a five-paneled work patterned after a religious alter piece. It depicts bridges and skyscrapers instead of saints. This art work reflects the belief that industry was ejecting religion as the center of modern life.

Joseph Stella, “Factories”

Joseph Stella “Smoke Stacks” 1935

Flowers By Joseph Stella, Italy, 1931 Oil on canvas, 75”X 75” Phoenix Art Museum

What colors does Stella use in Flowers?

Can you point out repeated lines?

What effect does this give?

Why do you think he uses these colors?

Do you see hidden objects?

What about birds?

Stella uses symmetry in the painting. what is symmetry and how does he do this?

“Dance of Spring” 1924 “The Red Hat” 1924 Oil on Canvas 9 ¾ X 12 in.

Stella is most known for his American Futurist paintings and his interpretations of modern twentieth-century life. In his quest for artistic freedom however, he did

not limit himself to just one style of expression.

Mountain Landscape of Muro Lucano, Italy

Serenade, A Christmas Fantasy

The Little Lake, 1931

Joseph Stella’s most famous quote is: “I have see the future and it is good. We will wipe away the religions of old and start anew.”