Kirkcudbright 

Samuel Peploe painted this scene of Kirkcudbright, a town in Scotland, with oil on canvas sometime in the early 20th century. Notice the thick brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Peploe was part of a group known as the Scottish Colourists, who were influenced by French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. The early 20th century was a time of great social change, with new ideas about art and society challenging traditional norms. The Scottish Colourists sought to break away from the conservative art establishment in Scotland by embracing modern styles and subjects. Peploe's choice of a seemingly ordinary scene reflects a broader trend in modern art toward depicting everyday life rather than grand historical or mythological subjects. As art historians, we can delve deeper into understanding Peploe's influences, the art market of the time, and the cultural values that shaped his work. By examining these social and institutional contexts, we gain a richer appreciation for the artwork's meaning and significance.