Wall Pocket for Flowers c. 1936

Editor: So, here we have John Fisk's "Wall Pocket for Flowers," a drawing and watercolor piece from around 1936. I'm immediately drawn to the earthy tones – they give it a sense of warmth, like a forgotten relic. What stands out to you most in this piece? Curator: It’s got that 'make-do-and-mend' spirit, doesn't it? It feels incredibly personal, a gentle nod to a time when everyday objects were lovingly handmade and cherished. It whispers of cozy kitchens and fragrant blooms picked from the garden. It almost feels like a vessel for memories. Editor: I see what you mean! It feels both practical and a bit whimsical. It's a drawing, so it's one step removed from being an actual wall pocket. Was this sort of decorative art common in the 30s? Curator: Absolutely. During the depression era, there was a real focus on handmade goods and a nostalgic longing for simpler times, the comfort of home. People found ways to beautify their surroundings with what they had and these design drawings were like dreams of domestic possibility. Editor: It’s amazing how much history is packed into such a simple image. Do you think Fisk intended to evoke these feelings of nostalgia? Curator: Perhaps, perhaps not. But as viewers, we bring our own baggage, right? The browns and greens make me think of my grandma’s pottery, the textures I remember are amplified here. Art's a conversation, you see, and Fisk started it with a wall pocket! What new story will you weave with this picture? Editor: That's a beautiful thought, I never considered this before. I like how we can all project our own story into art.