Shaker Bookcase c. 1937

John W. Kelleher made this drawing of a Shaker Bookcase, and what strikes me is the incredible amount of attention paid to the wood itself. Kelleher's process here feels almost meditative, focusing on the subtle variations and textures of the wood grain, almost like a portrait of wood. Look closely, and you’ll see the artist isn't just rendering a cabinet but is mapping the geography of a tree. The grain swirls and dances, catching the light in ways that feel almost alive. Notice the shadows he’s added; they give the piece a real heft. It feels like something solid, something you could reach out and touch. And those sliding doors! They add a touch of functionality to the austere form. It reminds me of some of Agnes Martin’s quieter grids, where the repetition becomes a way of focusing attention. Both artists share a love for the handmade, for the imperfections and irregularities that make each piece unique. It’s a good reminder that even the simplest forms can hold a lot of beauty.