Dinner Platter c. 1937

This 'Dinner Platter' by Joseph Sudek is rendered with pencil and watercolor, inviting us into a space of quiet observation. It's amazing how a simple subject can become so complex. The delicate washes of color and the precision of the pencil lines create a sense of depth, and the detail around the rim of the plate is just gorgeous. It seems like Sudek is really thinking about the process of seeing, and how to translate that onto paper. The translucency of the watercolor especially, allows the white of the paper to shine through, creating a luminous effect. This feels particularly special in contrast to the graphic quality of the line drawing beneath. That tiny schematic in the corner hints at the artist’s understanding of the object’s form and invites a conversation about seeing versus knowing. It reminds me of Giorgio Morandi's still lifes – both artists share an interest in the poetry of everyday objects. Ultimately, it's up to you to create your own narrative here; the work is open to whatever feelings it evokes.