Weather Vane - Eagle c. 1937

This drawing of an eagle weather vane was made by Milton Grubstein, and I imagine him working late into the night, fueled by coffee and a fascination with American folk art. The eagle, rendered in soft graphite, hovers in the air, its wings outstretched, ready to take flight. I love the way Grubstein captures the texture of the metal, suggesting the dents and imperfections accumulated over years of exposure to the elements. There is a beautiful simplicity to the composition. The artist's mark is clear and direct. It reminds me of the work of other self-taught artists who found beauty in the everyday, transforming ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art. Grubstein seems to be in conversation with them, honoring their legacy while adding his own unique voice to the mix. It reminds me that artists are always looking, always learning, always pushing the boundaries of what art can be.