The Carnival of Silence: Isolation in Leisure Time

This section brings together artworks that show similar everyday situations. Groups of people appear to be close, but their attention moves towards different directions. Notice how they sit, where their eyes land, and what small actions they take.

As you explore the works, ask yourself: If you stepped into these scenes, what would you notice first? Which moments remind you of your own daily life?

A Sunday on La Grande Jatte — 1884 Georges Seurat 1884–86

In a park, people bring dogs, children and parasols to “enjoy” the afternoon. They sit or stand not far apart, yet each stays in a small corner, their gestures and gazes rarely meeting. Moments add up to a scene of people close together but separate. Have you ever spent an afternoon in a park, feeling you watched from the edge?

The Prodigal Son with Harlots Amos Doolittle Early 19th century

In the tavern, music, dancing, wine and bright dresses pack the scene. The prodigal son sits at the table, surrounded by companions and women, as if enjoying himself. Look closer and his body leans back, his gaze not fixed on anyone, apart from the noise. Is this the closeness he wants, or a show of pleasure hiding something hollow?

Reception Constantin Guys 1850–55

Some well-dressed guests crowd together in conversation. One leans in, another turns away, their poses, glances and gaps forming a stiff scene, as if everyone is keeping up the right “social” look. Music and chatter fill the room, but real voices are hard to hear. Have you ever left a reception like this, unable to remember who you talked with? 

La Poule George Cruikshank 1817

Several couples dance to the popular “La Poule” on stage. One partner laughs while spinning; another is pulled forward; someone waits at the side. The dancers stand close, but each keeps their own steps. There is much politeness, little real talk. If you were in this ballroom, whose rhythm would you join, and who would you quietly walk past?

Copyright information:
–A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, Georges Seurat, 1884. Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Collection, from the Art Institute of Chicago. CC0. Reference Number 1926.224.
–The Prodigal Son with Harlots, Amos Doolittle ,Early 19th century. Gift of the Print and Drawing Club, from the Art Institute of Chicago. CC0. Reference Number 1925.172.
–Reception, Constantin Guys , 1850–55. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Larned Coburn Memorial Collection, from the Art Institute of Chicago. CC0. Reference Number 1933.524.
–La Poule, George Cruikshank , 1817. Gift of Joseph R. Shapiro, from the Art Institute of Chicago. CC0. Reference Number 1956.602.