Dance of the Santo Domingo Indians

John Marin

1929 · Watercolor and crayon on paper · Modern and Contemporary Art

A celebrated watercolorist, Marin summered in New Mexico in 1929 and 1930. Like many artists and tourists who preceded him, the painter was particularly interested to see the legendary corn dance at the Santa Domingo village near the Rio Grande. Writing to his friend and patron Alfred Stieglitz about the performance, Marin exclaimed, "A big Indian dance I attended—my greatest human Experience." The painter translated his excitement into this vibrant watercolor, in which rhythmic abstract pattern evokes vigorous and communal cultural expression. Seen from a distance, the dancers appear integrated with their environment.

Artist

John Marin

Date

1929

Medium

Watercolor and crayon on paper

Department

Modern and Contemporary Art

Credit line

Alfred Stieglitz Collection, 1949