Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, Nov. 25-Dec. 2, 1945

A week of indecision, unable to concentrate on any one thing for long. In studio, going over 1917 sketches, making plans. Also more recent work such as the early December sketch made in 1943 north of Attica -

About the middle of the week a heavy wet snowstorm from the east which literally clung to and covered everything with snow – indescribably beautiful effects; it was following by several mornings of very cold weather (12°) accompanied by heavy fogs at night which congealed in the trees, so that all became great white feathers. The sun shining on them, produced an effect the like of which I had never before seen.

Called F.R. up Friday to talk about the pictures. He has scheduled the show for Jan. 4 – or so, but he still has a few lingering doubts about showing them. He had shown them to two other people (unnamed) and they were enthusiastic.

His expression of a doubt cast me into a gloom from which it has been hard to lift myself. I finally have reached the conclusion that it is foolish to worry about them, and to go on painting more of them (– Immeasurably, helped to this state of optimism by Bertha’s unbounded faith in them).

[Frank K. M. Rehn Galleries, 683 Fifth Avenue between 53rd and 54th Streets, New York City, New York. Charles Burchfield. January 7-January 31, 1946. (checklist, 6 works: 1. The Blizzard (the White North Wind), 2. August Evening, 3. Cherry Blossom Snow, 4. Midsummer Caprice, 5. Autumnal Fantasy, 6. Mid-June]

Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, Volume 46, Nov. 25-Dec. 2, 1945