Nannies with a Child 1917

Editor: This is "Nannies with a Child," a 1917 watercolor and drawing by Jules Pascin. There's something so immediate and fresh about it. I am really taken by its simplicity. How would you interpret the formal qualities of this piece? Curator: Well, notice first how Pascin uses primarily line to delineate form, especially within the figures. The watercolor washes are applied loosely, almost as afterthoughts. Consider how this juxtaposition impacts the visual hierarchy. Editor: I see what you mean. The lines almost seem to "imprison" the figures, even if very lightly. What do you make of the restricted palette? Curator: Precisely. And, that muted color scheme--primarily blues, greens, and browns—creates a serene yet melancholic mood. Does that restriction evoke a particular emotional register, independent of its representational context? How does the limited palette work to unite the landscape and figures within? Editor: I think so. I didn't consider the effect of a unified tone initially. Looking at it now, the lack of bright color does add a layer of introspection that complements their seated poses. I’ll try to look for relationships of color when thinking about other paintings too. Thanks for pointing this out! Curator: Indeed! A study of Pascin’s line work will open countless other visual doors for you. It is more complex and self-conscious than first impressions reveal.