As urbanization and industrialization rapidly developed in the decades following the Civil War, the

As urbanization and industrialization rapidly developed in the decades following the Civil War, the need for recreation and an escape from the bustling city did as well. This lively and colorful beach scene painted by British-born artist Samuel S. Carr captured Coney Island during a crucial moment of transition. The advent of the first train to the resort town in 1869 brought a consistent flow of “day trippers” to enjoy popular attractions and activities. By 1880, Sunday visitors numbered over 100,000, flocking to enjoy sunlight amidst seaside amusements as displayed in this vibrant 1879 painting.  Here, tintype photography, beach toys, donkey rides and puppet shows pose enveloping commercial distractions from the serenity of the ocean and horizon. Carr renders a multiplicity of crowds, including families and singles alike, whose backs face the seaside in pursuit of activity. The solitary couple in the backdrop at right, gazing out at the beauty of the shoreline, presents a distinct juxtaposition serving to highlight the boom of consumerism and its implicit link to childhood play and leisure. The elegantly dressed African American couple in the left backdrop, standing somewhat apart from close crowd of puppet show spectators, marks this artwork as a timely representation of the uneasy and historic diversity of Coney Island.Posted by Alison KarasykSamuel S. Carr (American, 1837–1908). Beach Scene, circa 1879. Smith College Museum of Art, Northampton, Massachusetts. -- source link

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