Central Park c. 1901

Maurice Prendergast's "Central Park" (c. 1901) is a charming depiction of a summer day in the famous New York City park. The watercolor on paper captures the vibrant energy of the park, with figures gathered around a carousel, and others enjoying the shade of trees. Prendergast's signature use of bold, flat colors and simplified forms creates a sense of movement and joy, reminiscent of Impressionism. The work highlights Prendergast's interest in capturing the bustling energy of urban life, a motif he explored throughout his career.