Lot Essay
"Everett Shinn's interest in theatrical subjects dated back to his boyhood in Woodstown [New Jersey] when he made posters for his brother Warren, who ran the dances at the Opera House. It was evident in the fact that he never missed a carnival or parade that came to town, and also apparent in his constant desire to put on a show." (E. Deshazo, Everett Shinn 1876-1953: A Figure in His Time, New York, 1974, p. 71)
The Tightrope Walker illustrates perfectly Shinn's love of the theatrical. Dramatically lit against the dark background, the figure holds not only the attention of the audience members, but that of the viewer. Shinn's use of light draws the eye immediately to the acrobat with his elongated limbs as he performs above the audience on the tightrope. His outstretched arms and tight leg muscles convey the tension in the performer's body as he executes the difficult feat of walking across the rope. And although dark and in shadow, Shinn has painted the audience in such a way that the viewer can almost feel the silent anticipation that envelops the room.
The Tightrope Walker illustrates perfectly Shinn's love of the theatrical. Dramatically lit against the dark background, the figure holds not only the attention of the audience members, but that of the viewer. Shinn's use of light draws the eye immediately to the acrobat with his elongated limbs as he performs above the audience on the tightrope. His outstretched arms and tight leg muscles convey the tension in the performer's body as he executes the difficult feat of walking across the rope. And although dark and in shadow, Shinn has painted the audience in such a way that the viewer can almost feel the silent anticipation that envelops the room.