Cow 1914

Editor: We’re looking at Arthur Dove’s "Cow" from 1914, rendered in pastel and perhaps a touch of oil. It’s not exactly what one expects when imagining a cow! I find myself drawn to the stark contrast between light and shadow. How do you interpret this work, focusing on its form and composition? Curator: Notice the radical simplification of form. Dove eschews naturalistic representation. Instead, he presents us with essential shapes and planes. Consider how the dark, enveloping masses interplay with the smaller, brighter areas. What do you observe about the use of line and texture? Editor: The lines are quite assertive, especially the curving ones that define what I think might be the cow's horns or perhaps its back. The textures also seem varied, with some areas appearing quite smooth and others more granular. What is Dove trying to achieve with this abstracted portrayal? Curator: He is engaging with abstraction. This allows him to explore the essence of the subject. Rather than mimicking a cow’s outward appearance, he concentrates on capturing its inner presence through shape, tone and texture. It's an effort in evoking the feeling of a cow rather than merely depicting one. Does this emphasis on essential forms resonate with you? Editor: Absolutely! Focusing on the interplay of dark and light makes the familiar form almost new and a bit mysterious, it feels modern. Thank you for helping me to understand the picture in terms of its internal composition and the impact of his style. Curator: Indeed, it encourages a fresh perspective. By reducing the subject to its most basic components, we gain a new appreciation for both the artwork and the world it seeks to represent.