Table c. 1953

This is John Garay's 'Table', made with watercolor on paper. Looking at this piece, I'm struck by the meticulousness, the almost scientific way Garay approaches the subject. You can see how each brushstroke contributes to the overall form. It’s a real testament to the power of observation, and the process of translating what one sees into something tangible. There’s a real sense of light and shadow here. The warm browns and subtle gradations give the table a three-dimensional quality, while the textures, from the smooth tabletop to the more ornate carvings on the legs, are rendered with careful precision. My eye is drawn to the small, detailed rendering of the hardware on the drawer, it feels like a focal point, anchoring the whole piece. It reminds me a little of Charles Demuth’s architectural studies, that same clarity of line and attention to detail. Ultimately, though, what I appreciate most about this piece is its straightforwardness. It’s a table, plain and simple, but it’s also a testament to the beauty of everyday objects.