Fantasy 

Editor: Here we have what appears to be an undated painting by Maurice Prendergast, entitled “Fantasy.” It feels incredibly vibrant, almost like looking through a kaleidoscope at a garden party. I am captivated by its dappled brushstrokes and lively scene! What do you see in this work, from your perspective? Curator: Well, right away I’m transported back to a summer afternoon, aren't you? Prendergast really captures that fleeting light, that buzzy feeling of being outdoors. This painting style with short brushstrokes reminds me of a Pointillist tapestry woven with sunlight and shadow, a feast for the eyes that invites you to participate. But is this fantasy a literal, fantastical scene or, perhaps, Prendergast's way of rendering modern life? Editor: That's interesting, it does feel quite contemporary, despite the somewhat classical composition. So the "fantasy" is maybe not fairies, but a way of seeing? Curator: Precisely! Or a commentary! Think of the Gilded Age, the explosion of leisure, seaside resorts popping up…could this be Prendergast’s slightly whimsical, maybe even satirical, take on that new kind of social life? Perhaps all that leisure felt, well, like a fantasy? Editor: Oh, that is brilliant! A subtle jab hidden behind all that color. The title becomes much more nuanced when considered within that context! Curator: And isn’t that the joy of art? It's rarely just what's on the surface. Editor: I learned something unexpected from Prendergast today. Art that prompts meaningful inquiries really sparks joy! Curator: Indeed, may we keep such flames of enquiry burning!