Circus Wagon Figure c. 1939

John Matulis made this Circus Wagon Figure sometime in the 20th century. It’s difficult to say exactly when because I can't see the date on it. What’s interesting is the way Matulis renders the texture of the original carved wood using watercolour, which seems pretty tricky, a bit like painting a copy of something that already exists. Look how the folds of the figure's clothes cascade downwards, creating a dynamic sense of movement. The muted color palette, dominated by ochre and greys, enhances the wood's raw and weathered appearance, which feels both timeless and slightly worn. I like the way you can still see the pencil lines underneath, revealing the underdrawing of the piece; it’s like the ghost of his working process, a glimpse into the artistic decisions made along the way. It reminds me a little of the work of Elie Nadelman in the way that he depicted folk-art subjects. Art is an ongoing conversation, and this figure certainly has something to say!