Maurice Brazil Prendergast

Maurice Prendergast’s colorful and abstract prints and watercolors record his fascination with the lively tourist culture of Venice. By the end of the 19th century the city was virtually overrun by foreign visitors, and while Sargent, Rico, and other artists sought its undiscovered regions, Prendergast followed and depicted the crowds, particularly during public festivals like the Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer) seen here. By repeating small swirls of ink, he suggests the throngs that gathered to witness the nighttime fireworks display during this annual July event.