In Florida; En Floride, c.1917 (watercolour Jules Pascin (1885-1930)

The watercolour presents a scene populated by figures engaged in leisurely activities under a hazy sky. Here we observe a group of individuals seemingly gathered outdoors, possibly within a garden or park setting. The composition is loosely structured; theres no clear focal point, instead the eye wanders across a collection of vignettes.
Several men are depicted wearing hats and formal attire, suggesting an upper-class social gathering. A woman in a long dress stands prominently near the left edge, her posture conveying a sense of formality or perhaps slight discomfort. To the right, figures appear to be seated beneath the shade of trees, some holding baskets that might contain food or flowers. The arrangement suggests a picnic or informal reception.
The artist’s use of watercolour is notable for its fluidity and lack of precise detail. Lines are sketchy and expressive, contributing to an overall impression of spontaneity and immediacy. Colouration is muted; washes of blue, green, and grey dominate the palette, creating a melancholic atmosphere. The sky appears overcast, further dampening the mood.
The figures themselves seem somewhat detached from one another, their interactions ambiguous. Theres a sense of quiet observation rather than lively engagement. This detachment, combined with the subdued colour scheme, hints at underlying themes of alienation or social distance. One might interpret this as a commentary on the superficiality of upper-class leisure, or perhaps an exploration of the emotional landscape of a particular moment in time.
The composition’s lack of depth and perspective flattens the scene, contributing to its dreamlike quality. The artist seems less concerned with realistic representation than with capturing a fleeting impression – a momentary glimpse into a world characterized by both privilege and a subtle sense of unease. The signature at the lower right corner provides a personal touch, anchoring the work within the context of individual artistic expression.