Holiday on the Hudson, c.1912 (oil on canvas)

Known for his exuberant personality, George Luks studied art in Philadelphia and Germany before returning to a career as a painter and newspaper illustrator in the United States. His enthusiasm for life extended into his images of New York's working classes, which he often depicted carousing and merrymaking. Painted with broad, thick brushstrokes and vivid hues, Holiday on the Hudson captures the spirit of a festive river outing. The figures seem almost secondary to the playful patterns created by the brightly colored boats, reflected on the shimmering blue water.