Figurehead from "Julia Lawrence" 1935 - 1942

Rosamond P. Gray made this watercolor drawing of the Figurehead from "Julia Lawrence" sometime in the 20th century. I like how the artist uses delicate washes to bring out the sculptural forms. It's a reminder that artmaking is often a conversation between different media. The physicality of the figure is so present, but it's rendered with such light touches, like a ghost. The light is caught so tenderly on the folds of her dress and the carved swirls at the bottom. Look closely at how Gray uses delicate blue-green lines to define the edges. I love how this little touch makes the figure stand out. It's like she's glowing from within. This piece reminds me of the work of Florine Stettheimer, who also had a knack for capturing the ethereal qualities of everyday life with a playful and personal approach. Art's like that, it's an ongoing exchange of ideas, embracing ambiguity and multiple interpretations.