Flower Market 1895

Childe Hassam captured this flower market with oil on canvas, during the American Impressionism movement. This image presents us with an insight into the daily life of a community. Note how Hassam painted the scene with loose brushstrokes and bright colors, typical of the Impressionist style, but how is he using this style to comment on social structures? Consider the historical context of this artwork. It was a time of rapid industrialization and urbanization in America, and artists were beginning to explore new ways of representing modern life. Through his painting, Hassam brings the vibrancy of the market to life. But more than that, this artwork shows how cultural institutions, like flower markets, were a place for social gathering in an increasingly impersonal society. Understanding the social and institutional context of art enriches our appreciation. Researching the historical significance of flower markets or the role of public spaces can deepen our understanding of Hassam's work.