Siesta 1905

Curator: John Singer Sargent painted "Siesta" in 1905, and it resides now in a private collection. Editor: Oh, what a drowsy scene. It makes me think of long, hot afternoons and that heavy feeling just before a nap. The composition has such an immediacy; the artist seems to have captured the scene with effortless skill. Curator: Sargent, well known for his society portraits, here departs, representing figures in repose, integrated into a landscape setting. These may be studies of his family. Note how plein-air techniques lend informality and candor. We observe the influence of Impressionism on Sargent as he portrays modern life. Editor: Indeed, and look at the casual brushwork. The watercolor washes create a luminosity but they also demonstrate a kind of raw materiality, don’t you think? Notice how Sargent makes economical use of white to define the shapes and volumes of clothing. It seems the making-of this work emphasizes a particular lifestyle of leisure and privilege. Curator: That is certainly a key theme in interpreting this piece. Consider how "Siesta," while appearing spontaneous, reinforces ideals about leisure amongst affluent classes. The way these individuals are portrayed links them directly with pastoral traditions. It highlights a lifestyle far removed from realities experienced by many. Editor: And the choice of watercolor is so relevant here. It’s a portable, relatively inexpensive medium, perfect for these leisurely artistic ventures outdoors. We could explore how materiality reflects Sargent's economic circumstances and also reinforces his elite social position. This artwork and the moment itself, is utterly consumable! Curator: I appreciate how your perspective stresses not only technique but connects with class consciousness reflected through leisure, location and of course consumption. Editor: I am equally fascinated by your understanding of historical frameworks around the very culture of art making as profession for certain tiers of society.