Landscape with Figures and Goat 1919

Editor: So, this is Maurice Prendergast's "Landscape with Figures and Goat," created around 1919, a watercolor piece. The figures seem almost secondary to the dappled sunlight and playful colors. What do you see in this painting, especially considering its time? Curator: Well, it's interesting to consider this painting within the context of the early 20th century. Prendergast was working when debates about public space and leisure were becoming quite prominent. The painting depicts what looks like a leisurely scene, but it also suggests some tension. Notice the placement of the figures; they are seemingly unbothered by one another in this 'public' park setting. Editor: Tension? I thought they were just relaxing and having a nice time in the park. Curator: Yes, but is this ‘public’ scene reflective of public behaviour? Were there rules to public places? How might the rules create tension? The painting perhaps subtly addresses the experience of these burgeoning public spaces - locations with implicit social rules being formed, impacting experiences in art and public behaviours more generally. Think of debates around propriety in dress and interactions in public. Editor: I never considered that the setting was about something bigger than just a simple day at the park. It kind of feels like this isn't *really* a candid painting, but something more orchestrated to fit these expectations of how a park ought to be used. Curator: Precisely! It touches upon the artifice inherent in depicting a ‘natural’ scene meant for the public’s enjoyment, and who defines how those locations are seen or used. What else are you noticing? Editor: Well, it is like all the separate elements contribute to an idea. I hadn't considered public spaces as anything but…well, public and open. This has been a very thought-provoking interpretation. Curator: Agreed, thinking about the intersection of art, public spaces, and social rules gives the art so much context. It changes our viewing entirely.