Skillet 1938

Curator: Here we have William Frank's "Skillet," created in 1938, seemingly a watercolour drawing. Editor: It’s interesting. The drawing possesses a stark and simple quality. It presents what appears to be an old cooking pot, rendered realistically, which gives off an earthy tone through the use of browns. Curator: Indeed. The attention to detail in representing the wear and tear on this object is fascinating, making the skillet not just an item but an artefact with a past, possibly reflecting rural or domestic life during the Depression era. I am particularly drawn to Frank’s decision to render a mundane cooking tool in such exquisite detail. How does its function relate to the societal structures? What was this used to cook? Editor: You're focusing on its context; I appreciate that. To me, this reminds me of a bygone era, particularly with that long, almost medieval-looking handle. It speaks to craftsmanship and perhaps a simpler time, when tools were not mass-produced but were unique, lasting items. In relation to labour, imagine cooking over an open fire with this, so much work, which these days is a button click. Curator: I agree. Looking at its form and method of creation brings up questions about accessibility of art itself. A drawing made during a period marked by poverty makes it inherently political and very social. Maybe a quiet rebellion against industrialism by honoring something commonplace. Also, consider that while an oil painting seems highbrow this drawing with watercolor gives power to accessibility. Editor: Absolutely. The medium definitely influences how we understand its meaning and how that medium would be read or regarded back then, in a socio-economical way. The use of drawing and watercolor also highlights a delicate treatment of an object that has surely seen much hard use and time. Curator: Yes, exactly! It almost seems the choice of materials – watercolour instead of oil, for example – is key in unlocking the political or cultural associations inherent in Frank's decision. In doing this the artist brings the quotidian object to an almost aristocratic plane, with dignity. Editor: It really makes you consider the art and the impact. Now I’m curious about other objects of the time depicted with the same regard. Thanks.