In the summer of 1880, Pierre Auguste Renoir embarked on an artistic project unlike any he had previously attempted with significant consequences. He convinced an assortment of friends, patrons, and lovers to model over a series of afternoons as he painted them relaxing together on the balcony of the popular riverside Maison Fournaise café. Renoir’s goal was to capture modern life in France, stretching the boundaries of his previous works in size and scope and challenging critics of the new Impressionist movement. Like many works of art, Luncheon of the Boating Party offers a variety of angles for self- reflection, including a look at our relationships with others.
Research shows that our social connections are critical to our health and wellness, even our longevity. But today we find ourselves at a time when many of our most important social connections are strained. A global pandemic restricted our ability to spend time with loved ones, acquaintances, and even strangers for more than year. And social media has become an artificial conduit for developing and maintaining relationships. While connecting with others may be as simple as a click or a swipe, virtual meeting grounds also allow us to easily distance ourselves, hide real feelings, and avoid deep intimacy.
Spend some time with this glorious painting reflecting on the following:
- How do I connect with others? In the painting, Renoir captures 13 individuals each in a unique moment of relationship to the others gathered. Imagine yourself as one of the models in the painting. How do you feel among the group? What do you experience or feel when you are gathered with friends? What do you wish they knew?
- How do I share my life experiences? Our relationships are the place where we can share the peaks and valleys of our life. They require more than quick exchanges of smiley or frowny emojis. When nurtured and respected, they can be safe places for us to share what is flourishing and seek support for what is challenging. What is flourishing for you right now that you want to celebrate with people important to you? Where are you finding joy? If you could paint a picture of that pleasure, that happiness, what would it look like and who would you share it with?
- Who’s missing in my painting? Most of Renoir’s associates were quick to agree to pose for the painting. But according to Susan Vreeland’s recounting historical fiction tale of the painting’s origin, Renoir had to go to great lengths to locate and convince one particular model to sit for the painting – a woman he had a falling out with. Imagine yourself organizing a luncheon party. Who would be in your painting? Who might be missing? Is there a family member or friend you may have lost touch with or an important relationship that needs attention? What would it take to re-establish that tie?
Renoir is said to have commented, “One must from time-to-time attempt things that are beyond one’s capacity.” In a busy, technology-dependent lifestyle, it can be challenge to make time for the relationships that we need to sustain us. And we may have to go the extra mile particularly if a relationship has been strained. What will you do today to make your boating party complete?
Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Luncheon of the Boating Party, Between 1880 and 1881.
Oil on canvas, 51 1/4 x 69 1/8 in., The Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. Acquired 1923.
