Two Wall Doors c. 1937

Majel G. Claflin made this watercolor, titled "Two Wall Doors," in Taos, New Mexico. The muted tones and subtle shading suggest Claflin coaxed this image into being. I can imagine her patiently layering the paint, letting the texture of the paper and her gentle marks create the illusion of weathered wood. Look closely, and you'll see the details emerge. The faux bois effect of the doors is charming; the faux-crafty notched edges add a touch of whimsy. Each hinge is meticulously rendered, a testament to Claflin's careful observation. I wonder what caught her eye about these doors? Was it the texture, the light, or perhaps the stories they held within the walls they guarded? It reminds me a bit of the work of Agnes Martin, but with an earthy twist. Claflin, like Martin, finds beauty in simplicity, proving that even the most ordinary objects can be transformed into something extraordinary.