Cat c. 1904 - 1908

Editor: This watercolor sketch, "Cat," is by Gwen John, although we don't have the exact date. It's such a delicate piece, almost unfinished. What do you notice about how John approached the materials here? Curator: The visible pencil underdrawing is key. It reveals the labor and process behind the image. John wasn't trying to hide the means of production. Why do you think she left the underdrawing visible? Editor: Perhaps to show the cat in progress, an act of becoming, rather than a finished commodity? Curator: Precisely. By exposing the process, John collapses the distinction between sketch and finished work, questioning traditional art values. I wonder what paper was used? Editor: That makes me rethink my initial impression. Thank you. Curator: And you've made me consider the socio-economic implications of "unfinished" art.