This work was painted by French Impressionist, Pierre August Renoir, in 1876. It is one of the most celebrated masterpieces of modern art and is now housed at the Musee d’Orsay in Paris. Renoir lived near this community gathering place and carried his canvas there to paint outdoors in plein air. His loose brushstrokes and treatment of light are hallmarks of Impressionism. The dappled effect of sunlight through trees is captivating as is this entire crowded scene of form and movement. Notice that your eyes race across this painting struggling to take it all in!

This dance scene represents joy, community, and the blessings of times together in natural spaces. It captures a typical Sunday afternoon in Renoir’s place and time. It is a scene that represents to some degree, our longed for past and our almost within reach future. How will life be post-Covid is the question of these days. How will we experience celebration and togetherness in the years to come? May we both remember and envision in gratitude now. As we give thanks for our memories, for the brilliance behind the vaccines, for thoughts of moving forward in both newness and renewal, may we also give thanks for the artist, Renoir, who was inspired and gifted by God’s presence – bidden or not.

I hope Renoir and his masterpiece will come to mind on your next adventure outdoors. Thanks be to God.

In faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty

Minister of Children and Families

Montview Church