July's theme for Open Studio is WATERCOLOR, inspired by Alex Lindhal's Prospect Park Tower, 1918, Carol Hoorn Fraser's Hill in the Woods, 20th Century, and Ivan Majdrakoff's Of the Outdoors, 1954. 

Watercolor painting has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, who used water-based paints for decorative purposes on papyrus scrolls. However, the modern practice of watercolor painting as we know it today developed primarily in Europe during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. During the Middle Ages, watercolor was often used for illuminated manuscripts, where artists painted intricate designs and illustrations alongside handwritten text. These manuscripts served religious, scholarly, and artistic purposes and were highly valued during that time.

Watercolor gained prominence as a standalone medium during the Renaissance, particularly in northern Europe. Watercolor became popular for its portability, allowing artists to create works both indoors and outdoors. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, watercolor continued to evolve as artists experimented with new techniques and styles. The medium is often associated with various artistic movements, including Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and the modernist avant-garde

Drop-in, Self-Guided Art Activity

Each month, WAM presents a self-guided art-making activity inspired by an art piece or artist from the museum's collection. Everything you need to make your own masterpiece is provided and the activity is designed to be accessible and open to all. Drop-in during open hours and get creative!

Image credit: Axel Lindahl, Prospect Park Tower, 1918. Painting, 14 x 9 15/16. Gift of anonymous donor. Not on view.