Artworks That Encapsulate Summer
by Alara Balcısoy
Pool With Two Figures - David Hockney, 1972
One of the most essential activities of summer is swimming in a pool. This painting by Hockney, which broke a record as the most expensive work ever sold at an auction by a living artist in 2018, uses this seemingly nonchalant activity to depict the darker side of Los Angeles, with its oblivious and excessive lifestyle. The two contrasting figures establish this critic on LA, and places the viewer in a weird position as a bystander to a brimming confrontation between them.
Works - Hiroshi Nagai
The works of this Japanese illustrator may be familiar to you from city pop or summer playlists on YouTube. Nagai’s illustrations garnered attention in the 80’s as they were used as cover art for many city pop albums. Motifs such as palm trees, clear skies, convertible automobiles and pools radiate summer. However, almost all of these illustrations eerily lack any human presence and push us to enjoy the view. You can explore his works here: www.hiroshinagai.com
Sun Water Maine - Georgia O'Keeffe, 1922
When I first saw this painting, I was immediately transported to the cool waters of the Aegean Sea, where I spend most of my summers. It perfectly captures the moment of bliss when you are swimming under the sun, unbothered by the heat, and realize the vastness of the world as you gaze into the continuous waves. O’Keefe, whose name is synonymous with flowers, not only successfully translates this moment onto the canvas, but also provides a gateway into deeper ontological questions that inevitably arise while floating on water.
Moda - Nazmi Ziya Güran, 1934
The painting depicts an afternoon in Moda, Kadıköy. The sea in the background and the trees swaying in the breeze signify a lovely summer evening. People, basking in the afternoon sun also are reminiscent of summer.