West Point (No. 16 of The Hudson River Portfolio)

This watercolor by John Hill was created based on a work by Irish artist William Guy Wall. Hill was inspired by Wall’s pastel pieces and their truly impressive attention to detail. His own work closely follows suit — capturing precise details of the surrounding landscape, weather conditions, and even the subtle movements of the figures.

The painting is one of a series of 20 works depicting landscapes along the Hudson River. The scene shown is near West Point, home to the United States Military Academy.

Rendered in soft pastel colors, the painting conveys a sense of peace and tranquility. The quiet and coziness of the place are beautifully expressed through the aquatint technique, which allows for a refined interplay of light and shadow.