A Naiad

My name is Isabella, and I will be your guide today through one of our most impressive paintings: nn We are going to look at a painting called "A Naiad." It was painted a long, long time ago in 1893 by an artist named John William Waterhouse. Can you say "John William Waterhouse?" That's a mouthful! nn --- nn This painting is really big! It's taller than me and wider than your arms stretched out. It shows us a secret place in the woods. nn What kinds of animals do you think might live in these woods? nn --- nn Look closely! Do you see the man lying down? He looks very relaxed, doesn't he? He might be a hunter or a shepherd taking a break. He's wearing animal skin. Why do you think he's wearing that? nn --- nn Now, look behind the tree trunk. Do you see the girl peeking out? She's a Naiad! Naiads are magical creatures who live in the forest. She has a crown of leaves on her head. Do you think she made it herself? nn --- nn The artist used special tricks with light and shadow to make the forest look real. He used lots of browns and greens, just like in a real forest! He even painted every leaf and ripple of water very carefully. nn What do you think it would feel like to be in this forest? nn --- nn This painting is like a storybook come to life! It shows how people used to imagine magical creatures and places. Art can tell us stories without even using words! nn What story do you think this painting is telling? nn ---