Tip-top-table 1937

Frank Wenger made this drawing of a tip-top-table, and what strikes me is the way he's captured the light. It's almost as if he's feeling his way around the form, letting the shadows and highlights guide his hand. You know, artmaking isn't just about copying what you see, it's about engaging in a dialogue with the subject. Look at the way the color is built up in layers, creating a sense of depth. The texture of the paper peeks through in places, reminding us that this is an object made by human hands. And that little flourish of carving on the legs? It's like a tiny poem, a moment of pure visual pleasure. It reminds me a little of Agnes Martin, in the way that she could find so much beauty in simplicity. Both artists invite us to slow down, to really see the world around us. Art is an ongoing conversation, and each artist brings their own unique voice to the table.