Statuette "Hope" c. 1937

Jane Iverson created this statuette, "Hope," during a time of immense social change. Born in 1910, Iverson lived through the Depression, two World Wars, and the burgeoning feminist movement, all of which shaped her perspective. This piece shows a woman, perhaps a farmer, gazing optimistically forward with a scythe, a symbol of labor, resting in her hand. Her other hand gently holds a piece of cloth, which could symbolize a waving goodbye to past troubles, or suggest possibilities for the future. There is an emotional depth, as the figure embodies resilience and expectation amidst hardship. We might ask ourselves if the figure represents all women, or perhaps is Iverson’s reflection of herself? What traditional roles is the artist playing with? By viewing this work, we can appreciate how Iverson invites us to contemplate hope's role in our own lives.