Preserve Jar c. 1936

This drawing of a preserve jar was made by John Matulis, we don't know when, but it's rendered with graphite and colored pencil. Look at the way Matulis uses colour! It’s so muted and earthy, all browns and greens, which gives the piece a grounded, natural feel. But there’s also this subtle play of light and shadow, especially on the surface of the jar, that suggests a real attention to form and depth. Notice the texture he creates. It’s almost like you can feel the rough, porous surface of the clay. The way he outlines the jar, so matter-of-fact, it reminds me of Guston's late work. The way something so humble can be elevated through close attention. It’s a quiet piece, but it speaks volumes about the beauty of simple, everyday objects.