The Seine, Paris c. 1907

John Marin made this watercolor of the Seine in Paris, but when we do not know. It shows the river’s bustling activity, with boats, bridges and buildings rendered in muted tones. Marin's loose brushwork and emphasis on atmosphere create a sense of modernity and the ephemeral nature of urban life. Paris, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was a hub of artistic innovation, attracting artists from around the world. This was thanks to the institutional frameworks for art making, such as the École des Beaux-Arts, and the various Salons, or official exhibitions. The Seine, as a central feature of Parisian life, became a popular subject for artists exploring the changing face of the city. Marin’s choice of watercolor reflects a shift away from traditional academic painting towards more spontaneous and subjective modes of expression. Art historical resources, such as exhibition catalogues and artists’ biographies, help us understand the social and institutional contexts that shaped artists’ creative choices. The meaning of art is always contingent on its particular social and institutional context.