Gaspee Parade
Gaspee Parade
Pastel
f 24” X 33” X 19 X 25
I enjoy the challenge of capturing life in motion. My process is to set the stage, which in this case included the site and spectators; while trusting that subjects will appear; and finally, to spontaneously react to a gut feeling of ‘just right’ as powdered pigment meet the surface of my page.
Gaspee Parade, the pastel, was created on-site. From direct observation, it captures the environment, spectators, vendors and paradors. Revolutionary units and recreators wear costumes from colonial times. Alongside two costumed Arabian figures an adult Shriner, sporting a characteristic fez, zooms through the parade route in a mini car spreading cheer. Little did I know that the driver who was stuffed into the child’s seat of a car was also a representative of that organization of honor. True to the Shriner mission, not only do the Shriners serve mankind but also engage in the spirit of fun.
Costumed historical figures, clowns, bands, floats and politicians march in the parade that commemorates Rhode Island Colonists burning of the British customs schooner, HMS Gaspee in 1772 on Narragansett Bay in protest to unfair trade taxation, one of the first rebellions by the colonies, a catalyst in the American revolution. Spectators gather, commune in Pawtuxet Village and travel back in time, thanks to volunteers who, for the past sixty years, preserve, promote and share Rhode Island’s revolutionary history.
Equally important is creating a gathering place to reunite, connect emotionally, celebrate and grieve generational passage of time. In this small village, families return annually to do just that, ‘Connect.’
I am pleased also to make my contribution to honor what is good.
Sources:
https://www.shrinersinternational.org/en/who-we-are/mission-and-values