The artwork titled “Past Times”, created by Kerry James Marshall in 1997, is an Expressionist genre painting rendered in acrylic and collage. The expansive piece measures 2289.6 by 396.2 centimeters and is currently located at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
The artwork portrays a vibrant scene of African American leisure in a public park. Dominating the foreground are figures engaged in various recreational activities on a red-checked picnic blanket. A girl is seen playing croquet, while a woman and a man sit nearby, the latter reclining with a radio. An elderly figure is seated next to an open picnic basket. Surrounding them are depictions of enjoying pastimes such as golfing, boating, and water skiing on a lake in the background. The lush greenery and serene water body, with birds flying and banners fluttering, encapsulate an idyllic day of relaxation and enjoyment. Consistent with the Expressionist movement, the piece emphasizes bold, vivid colors and contrasts, bringing a sense of vibrancy and life to the mundane moments portrayed.
