The artwork, titled “Bathers,” is a piece by Maurice Prendergast, created circa 1918 to circa 1923. Executed in oil on canvas, this work belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. It falls within the genre painting category, spanning dimensions of 44.45 by 61.28 cm. Currently, the artwork is housed at the Flint Institute of Arts in Flint, Michigan, USA.
“Bathers” depicts a vibrant, summery scene by the beach, characterized by its vivid use of color and lively composition. Strewn across the foreground are individuals engaging in various leisurely activities in the water and on the sandy shore. The brushwork is loose, creating an impressionistic effect with dabs and swaths of color that suggest movement and festivity. The central focus includes a mix of bathers in the water, individuals in row boats, and people lounging under colorful umbrellas. In the background, the rolling hills and distant buildings create a serene yet lively atmosphere, capturing the essence of a carefree day by the sea. Prendergast’s naive artistic style is evident in the simplified and almost whimsical depiction of figures and landscape, enhancing the energetic and convivial mood of the scene.
