Woman's Slipper c. 1937

Ann Gene Buckley made this image of a slipper without a date, using what looks like watercolor and graphite on paper. There's something tender and tentative in the approach to mark-making. The colors are muted, and there's a palpable sense of observation, as if Buckley were carefully studying this single slipper, pulling it apart visually to understand it. The slipper is rendered in a deep, velvety blue, the kind of color that absorbs light. The interior is pale and fleshy, contrasting the darkness of the exterior. Look at the floral details near the toe – each petal is outlined with a delicate touch, evoking a sense of fragility and preciousness. It reminds me a little of the work of Mary Delany, who made detailed botanical collages. Ultimately, this simple image invites contemplation and quiet reflection. It’s a testament to the power of close observation and the beauty found in everyday objects.