May Day 1903

Maurice Prendergast's 1903 watercolor "May Day" depicts a joyous scene of people dancing in a circle. The figures, rendered in loose, colorful brushstrokes, create a sense of movement and energy. The painting captures the spirit of the traditional May Day celebration, a time for festivity and renewal. Prendergast, known for his vibrant and expressive paintings, effectively used his signature style of flat planes of color to convey the celebratory atmosphere of the occasion. The work is considered a fine example of American Impressionism, which was a flourishing movement in the early 20th century.