Spectators at the Grand Prix

Spectators at the Grand Prix

Childe Hassam

1888

gouache

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a busy street scene with people riding in a horse-drawn carriage. The woman in white stands up, holding onto the seat, while others sit or lean in. Hats, umbrellas, and old-fashioned clothes fill the scene, with quick, loose brushstrokes giving it a lively feel. The painting uses soft colors and rough edges, typical of artists who focused on everyday moments. The loose style makes it feel like a quick snapshot of life. Next, check out watercolor to see how artists use this medium for fast, expressive sketches.

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