I love
Spring Rain by John Sloan, especially now when we head out to our parks—human made environments that offer glimpses of nature. The central figure is not intentionally staying six feet away from others, but she reminds me of all of us doing so.
The benches are empty and wet, and she walks unhurriedly lifting her hem to reveal a glimpse of red stocking—a bit shocking in its day! That red carries us deeper into the painting to what looks like a row of red flowers, tulips perhaps, that encircle a fountain. Those reds contrast the verdant greens that Sloan creates letting us know that spring is burgeoning. Soon even the barren tree that arches over our walker will leaf out.
Finally, though it is a gray, rainy day, we see a spot of light, first on her neck and then on the green tree to her left. There is sun. And there will be sun for us too.
Dee Baer
Museum Guide