Opera Cloak c. 1937

Al Curry made this 'Opera Cloak' with watercolor. I can imagine them working away with their delicate brushstrokes and watery washes, carefully building up this image. Look at how the red decoration just pops against the stark white of the cloak. The embroidered flower patterns bring such rhythm to the piece. I wonder what Curry was thinking as they painted, perhaps thinking of the theaters and operas where such a garment might be worn, or maybe just being deeply involved in the joy of making itself. There is a real skill to being able to capture a shape in all its different angles, and a real joy in being able to convey a sense of depth, texture, and form with simple watercolors. When you really look, you can feel Curry’s presence.