“Ashbury Park South,” created by Florine Stettheimer in 1920, is an oil painting representative of the Naïve Art (Primitivism) and Expressionism movements. This genre painting captures a lively scene filled with various figures engaging in recreational activities at a beachside location.
The artwork is characterized by its bright and vibrant color palette, predominantly featuring shades of yellow, which gives it a warm, sunny ambiance. The composition is heavily populated with diverse figures indulging in leisure and social interactions. Some individuals are depicted dancing, lounging, and conversing near a Ferris wheel and colorful tents adorned with banners, while others are seen bathing or playing in the sand. The distinct stylization and whimsical nature of the figures are indicative of Stettheimer’s unique artistic approach, merging naïve art’s simplicity with expressionist dynamism. The scene is richly detailed with a variety of textures and elements, capturing a moment of joyous human interaction and leisure.
