Art Theory Text with Sketches 1943

Curator: This is a page of Stuart Davis's notes, titled "Art Theory Text with Sketches," dating from November 6, 1943, now held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The handwriting itself is captivating—a flurry of ideas jotted down, very immediate and personal. The overall tone feels rather assertive, even urgent. Curator: Indeed, Davis was deeply engaged with the discourse surrounding modern art. Here, he contrasts "imitative art" with what he calls "creative art," emphasizing the importance of form and intellectual discipline. Editor: Look at these small sketches at the bottom. They appear to be explorations of spatial relationships. It seems he's actively grappling with the idea of translating three-dimensional space onto a two-dimensional plane. Curator: His writings often reflect his broader concerns about the role of abstraction and its relationship to American culture and identity during that period. Editor: For me, the power of this piece lies in the process it reveals. It’s a glimpse into the artist's mind as he formulates his theories and artistic vision. Curator: Absolutely, and understanding the historical context enhances our appreciation of Davis's commitment to challenging conventional artistic norms.