Grandma Moses, July Fourth, 1951, oil on canvas, The White House.
Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July and July Fourth, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the Declaration of Independence of the United States on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject to the monarch of Britain, King George III. Our country was now united, free.
Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies…
What I find so endearing about Grandma Moses’ July Fourth is its childlike, innocent quality, reflecting a time of simplicity. This painting depicts rural living with an idyllic scene based on farming life. July Fourth shows a rural community celebrating Independence Day with a parade, an impromptu baseball game, and a summer picnic. The painting is light, the colors cheerful.
Our world has gotten so complicated in so many ways. Let’s never forget what our country was built on. Let’s never forget happiness and kindness to all.