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Heartland
Heartland is the bright and beautiful chronicle of Charles Wysocki's love affair with life and with Americana. Bursting with his distinctive, highly detailed, full-color paintings, drawings, sketches, and photographs from his own collection--and embellished by his own verse-- Heartland will be a true source of joy and inspiration to his many fans. Like An American Celebration, his best-selling 1985 book, Heartland presents a warm and romantic view of the hard work and quiet pleasures of nineteenth-century American life. But Heartland goes beyond that volume in presenting the artist's creative world--the sources of his inspiration. "There is a simple message in my work," Charles Wysocki has always said, "and it is love." As shown within the pages of Heartland, that love infuses all his work. More than an art book, Heartland is the personal chronicle of Wysocki's unique vision. It is a treasure to cherish and appreciate for generations.
- GenresArtNonfiction
144 pages, Hardcover
First published January 9, 1994
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 18, 2026
“There is a country in my mind, a landscape in my heart, a place that does not appear on any map but is so clear and sharply detailed that to paint it, I have only to look within.”
American painter Charles Wysocki was known for creating a uniquely stylized vision of American life from days gone by—one filled with warmth, humor, and a deep sense of belonging.
Years ago, when I first moved out on my own, I remember the excitement of decorating my apartment. Wysocki’s posters captured exactly the mood I wanted: small towns, cozy homes, families, animals, and a slower, gentler way of living. I felt pure joy every time I found a new print to hang on my walls. And when his art began appearing on greeting cards, I loved sharing that same feeling with friends and family.
This coffee table book beautifully celebrates his love of American life. Each painting invites readers to step into a world shaped by memory and imagination, where simplicity and connection are at the heart of everyday moments. Sometimes it’s something as quiet as a cat napping beside a stack of beloved books. Other times, its bustling streets, seaside charm, or the magic of childhood wonder.
Originally published in 1994, this smaller coffee table edition highlights the Greenwich Workshop Collection and is thoughtfully organized into six chapters, including The Eyes of a Child, The Charm of America, and The Lure of the Sea. Alongside the artwork are stories, historical context, and photographs that reveal the inspirations behind his scenes, making the experience feel both personal and immersive.
Wysocki’s art is captivating, whimsical, and filled with heart. Even though it reflects a time long past, the feelings it evokes—comfort, nostalgia, and joy—remain timeless. This is a charming collection that is easy to get lost in and sure to leave readers smiling.
American painter Charles Wysocki was known for creating a uniquely stylized vision of American life from days gone by—one filled with warmth, humor, and a deep sense of belonging.
Years ago, when I first moved out on my own, I remember the excitement of decorating my apartment. Wysocki’s posters captured exactly the mood I wanted: small towns, cozy homes, families, animals, and a slower, gentler way of living. I felt pure joy every time I found a new print to hang on my walls. And when his art began appearing on greeting cards, I loved sharing that same feeling with friends and family.
This coffee table book beautifully celebrates his love of American life. Each painting invites readers to step into a world shaped by memory and imagination, where simplicity and connection are at the heart of everyday moments. Sometimes it’s something as quiet as a cat napping beside a stack of beloved books. Other times, its bustling streets, seaside charm, or the magic of childhood wonder.
Originally published in 1994, this smaller coffee table edition highlights the Greenwich Workshop Collection and is thoughtfully organized into six chapters, including The Eyes of a Child, The Charm of America, and The Lure of the Sea. Alongside the artwork are stories, historical context, and photographs that reveal the inspirations behind his scenes, making the experience feel both personal and immersive.
Wysocki’s art is captivating, whimsical, and filled with heart. Even though it reflects a time long past, the feelings it evokes—comfort, nostalgia, and joy—remain timeless. This is a charming collection that is easy to get lost in and sure to leave readers smiling.
August 5, 2013
Charles Wysocki's cats are so much fun. Known for his Idealized America paintings, he became known to me through his cat paintings. "Too Pooped" on tin hangs near my back door which has a view of our Maple and bird feeders. I have "FredeRick the LiTerate" as a throw on my sofa. Perfect for this retired librarian. This book put together by the artist is interspersed with family photos, biographical text, and things that inspired him.
November 14, 2017
Interesting look into Charles Wysocki's life and art. This book captures where many of his ideas came for in his paintings and a nice look at his home life. You will certainly walk away feeling like you new him a little better. Very uplifting.
October 16, 2021
WOW!!! What an absolutely beautiful book! My heart and soul have been nurtured. I'm so thankful for libraries because I probably would not have bought the book--because of cost-- although I would love a copy. It is a book I would like to read and look at again and again...and again!
October 19, 2016
Charming! Very similar artistry to some of my favorites from "Lang" and "Yankee Magazine."
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews