In his influential series of articles titled “Letters on Landscape Painting” (1855), Durand shared his view that a realistic depiction of nature could reveal spiritual qualities: "The humblest scenes of your successful labors will become hallowed ground to which, in memory at least, you will make many a joyous pilgrimage, and ... in the fullness of your emotions, kiss the very earth that bore the print of your oft-repeated footsteps." Born in New Jersey, Asher B. Durand began his artistic career as the apprentice to a silversmith and watchmaker. In 1825, he helped establish what would later become the National Academy of Design. Durand began painting more actively, and he went on to befriend Thomas Cole. Durand and Cole became sketching companions, and they explored New England and the Adirondacks on various sketching trips. He actively promoted painting outdoors and learning from a direct study of nature.