British painter (1849 - 1917) is known for working in a Pre-Raphaelite style. His paintings have been present throughout my life and have always captured my imagination. He depicts women of Ancient Greek mythology and Arthurian legend. His return to a older style of painting adds to the whimsical feel and appropriately ages the painting. He knew how to tap into the contemporary fascination with the liminal and through his paintings. He managed to remind a nation of their roots, through the Arthurian legend paintings, in a time of uncertainty, at the turn of the century. His paintings are approachable and relatable, or at least would have been to a generation who was familiar with ancient stories and poems. Waterhouse has an evident understanding of the figure and his use of colour shows that he knows the importance of colour-relations. Through the whimsical and mystical atmosphere scenes set in fantasy lands, Waterhouse is inviting the viewer into a world where every day life cannot touch, them. They offer comfort in their familiarity but escapism in the other-worldly scenarios portrayed.
The Lady of Shalott, 1888
The Crystal Ball, 1902
Miranda -- The Tempest, 1916
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