The artwork, titled “Festa della Regatta”, was created by John Singer Sargent around c.1903. Rendered in watercolor on paper, this piece belongs to the Impressionism art movement and depicts a cityscape. It is currently held in a private collection.
In this vibrant representation, the artwork captures a lively scene of gondoliers in Venice during a regatta. The composition is bathed in shades of blues and purples, effectively conveying the reflective quality of the water and the shadowy presence of the surrounding architecture. The swift motions of the gondoliers and the dynamic strokes of the watercolor medium depict the movement and excitement of the event. The architectural backdrop is skillfully suggested with loose, expressive brushstrokes, which highlight the grandeur and intricate details of the Venetian buildings without detracting from the main focus on the figures and their boats. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and a sense of immediacy to the scene, hallmark traits of the Impressionist style.