Painting scene recreated in Beloit [WI]
George Seurat had a “Sunday Afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte,” and Beloit now has “Saturday in the Park with Friends.”
Beloiters brought to life the famous painting by the French artist Saturday afternoon in an effort to promote an August event planned by Friends of Riverfront. And while people were positioned similarly along the Rock River, Beloit’s version of Seurat’s work had its own flair.
There was a wooden turtle silhouette instead of a monkey, a woman jogging in the background instead of a girl running, and a state Senator dressed in red, white and blue standing near the river instead of a women dressed in period clothing.
But a few similarities remained. There were boats along the river, including a sailboat, plenty of hats and umbrellas, and yes, even a few well-behaved dogs.
Bravo!
What a wonderful idea. Sometimes imitation is the most sincere form of flattery.
But, I wonder how many people, including the ones who posed have any idea of who, what, where the original painting was about?
Yes, many participants were familiar with this piece and knew of Seurat and his influence on art at the turn of the century. It’s housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, a short drive from Beloit.
A great Seurat reference is – Seurat Bio at Olga’s Gallery.
(My son wonders how many know the real story behind the Wizard of Oz? Another late-19th century piece of “art” whose real meaning is now lost to most people.)
Thanks for the information, it was very helpful.