"Welcome": Study for a Window 1909

Curator: This pencil drawing by John La Farge, entitled "\"Welcome\": Study for a Window," dates back to 1909. It's currently held here at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: The first impression is one of quiet anticipation, perhaps a stage being set. The figure has an almost classical, serene quality. Curator: La Farge's exploration here seems to tie into broader late 19th, early 20th century trends concerning women depicted with openness and active gestures. The figure raises drapery and is a gesture of "welcome," hence the title; this invites consideration of both the cultural status of women and of their presence in the art of this time. Editor: Exactly. Notice how the line work emphasizes the fall of fabric—the draping over her form. Classical togas always bear strong symbolical power—often signifying grace, authority, or virtue—a silent language influencing our understanding of who is depicted. Curator: His ties to Neoclassicism are visible here. It speaks to the influence of formal training—the study of classical form evident in much of his work at this time, informing the political roles and public values attached to artistic representations. Editor: This reminds us how much cultural memory inheres in visual symbols, even in what might seem like a simple gesture, and of course what could the “welcome” imply in terms of our interpretation of our cultural experience? Curator: It really opens questions of audience engagement with art—La Farge presenting an inviting experience, while we also have to keep in mind those not granted those “welcome” spaces at the time. Editor: True, this image’s ability to still trigger conversation speaks to lasting emotional relevance within art—beyond any simple depiction.