1. The Hudson River School: The landscapes of the Hudson River School, particularly the works of Thomas Cole and Albert Bierstadt, heavily influenced her depictions of rural life and the natural world. She admired their realism and attention to detail, which she applied to her own paintings of farm life and seasonal scenes.
2. The Primitives: Grandma Moses's work has been categorized as "primitive" art, though she disliked the term. The naive aesthetic of folk art and the emphasis on craftsmanship resonated with her personal artistic sensibilities.
3. Her Own Experiences: Grandma Moses's life in rural New York, her childhood, and her farm life all contributed to the subject matter of her paintings. Her paintings reflected her personal memories and nostalgic views of a simpler time.
4. The Changing Art Market: Grandma Moses rose to fame during the 1930s and 1940s, a time when the art market was increasingly interested in folk art and alternative aesthetics. This shift in taste, coupled with her strong personality and marketing savvy, propelled her to success.
5. Her Age and Story: Her late start in art at the age of 78 and her dedication to creating art despite her age and physical limitations created a compelling narrative that resonated with audiences.
While Grandma Moses didn't have a single direct influence, it was the combination of these factors that helped her achieve her unique style and enduring legacy.