Bathers 1915

Maurice Prendergast made this painting, Bathers, with watercolor, probably sometime in the early 20th century. The mark-making in this piece is so playful; a dance of brushstrokes that make up a sort of tapestry of joyful abandon. You can almost feel the breeze and hear the laughter of these figures through the paint. It's all about the process, you know? Looking closely, the watery texture of the watercolor gives everything a light, airy feel. The colors blend and bleed into each other, creating soft edges and a sense of movement. See how he's used blues and greens to create depth, and then BAM, a splash of bright color to draw your eye. It’s as if the landscape is built from pure emotion. That central figure, the one with arms raised, feels like a focal point, like an invitation to join the party. It reminds me a bit of Bonnard, that same intimate and vibrant feeling.