Coverlet c. 1936

Editor: Here we have Ralph Atkinson's "Coverlet" from around 1936, which seems to be a linocut print, maybe even a drawing, intended as a textile design. I find the repeating patterns quite soothing. What catches your eye in this work? Curator: Well, first, let’s just bask in the comfort of it! It's not merely a design, it’s an invitation. It reminds me of grandma's house. Not that *my* grandma had anything like this–mine had doilies that could double as ninja stars–but it evokes that folksy charm. I think the repeating patterns in this linocut are so very captivating! Isn't there something deeply comforting in the way the motifs interlock? Editor: I see what you mean! So, the artist possibly wanted to communicate warmth and familiarity through this repetition and handcrafted medium? Curator: Precisely! And that contrast of colours. What appears initially to be only two colours does a lot of work. And given that this dates back to around 1936, it’s very tempting to think about how design choices would function during the great depression. It’s also very interesting to wonder whether something of its type was ever actually made. It's as if Atkinson’s handing us a slice of nostalgic Americana, printed and patterned into tangible form. Do you think this tells a story, or simply establishes a mood? Editor: I think it leans towards establishing a mood rather than telling a specific story, maybe a memory fragment of domesticity and simple pleasures. I definitely feel it now. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure! I will think about it for weeks to come.