Henry Tanner: The Banjo Lesson

Henry Tanner was an American painter and a pioneer of his era. Most notably, he is known for illustrating biblical scenes, but his artwork and career generated so much more for society. Tanner was born only 4 years after the end of the Civil War. Both of his parents literate and well educated; his father a minister, while his mother, a former slave, taught school (Henry). This was extremely progressive for this era of time. Tanner obviously heavily influenced by both his parents, was given privileged opportunities not accessible for the majority of African Americans. Subsequently, Tanner followed his desires, but never forgot his cultural heritage, and in doing so was the recipient of many firsts in his pursuit of the art world. Though Henry Tanner was born too early for the actual crusade of the civil rights movement, he …show more content…
Tanner employed the technique known as impressionism, using oils on canvas. Emphasize within the center of the portrait is the older gentleman teaching a lesson to a child, together they are the focal point of this portrait. It is a fleeting moment in time, the here and now, which makes this scene so priceless. Tanner use of lighting illustrates this concept so well. The man and boy are illuminated by the soft glow of the light in the background. This is called the subordination effect, and in its subtle way enhances the tenderness of the moment without distraction. His brush strokes soft and gentle, as subtle lines display the curvature of shapes. Similar are his choice of colors. The delicate blue, yellow, gray, and brown colors accentuate this loving moment in time. The movement of the scene conveying soft gentleness, while invoking one’s own memories. One is easily drawn into this cherished scene. Surely, Tanner was a master in his use of light to portray such intimacy. For this reason, works by Tanner are so sought