Ladies with Parasols 1897

Maurice Prendergast made this watercolor painting, “Ladies with Parasols,” date unknown, using paper and brush. He's used watercolor in a loose, washy manner to give the scene a sense of light and movement, and that is what really catches the eye. The quick strokes create a lively atmosphere, making it feel like we're right there on the beach with the figures. But notice the figures: the ladies are adorned in the fashions of the time, with their frilly dresses and large hats, a picture of leisure and privilege. The choice of watercolor, with its fluid and translucent qualities, enhances the feeling of lightness and spontaneity. Prendergast's technique captures a moment of leisure and luxury, and the material infuses the work with a feeling of breezy elegance. Ultimately, understanding the materials and making of this artwork helps us appreciate the social and cultural context in which it was created, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.