Dress c. 1937

Melita Hofmann made this watercolor work on paper; it's of a dress, and the way she's used the watercolor feels so delicate. Imagine Hofmann with her brush, carefully laying down those thin stripes that make up the dress's pattern. The dress itself is so detailed with its lace collar, purple ribbons, and ruffled edges, that it gives the impression that it could come to life at any moment. I think of those moments when you are just alone in your studio, thinking about colors and shapes, and how a piece of clothing could be a kind of portrait too. I can imagine Hofmann dreaming about this dress, thinking about who might wear it, what the occasion might be. Isn't it amazing how a simple watercolor can hold so much thought and imagination? It makes you wonder about all the dresses, designed and un-designed that are out there.