Still Life 

Editor: We're looking at David Cox's watercolor *Still Life*. It feels very understated, almost fleeting. The pots and vessels are depicted with such loose brushstrokes, they almost melt into the background. What do you make of its hazy quality? Curator: Hazy is the perfect word. For me, it’s like a memory of a still life rather than a representation. Notice how Cox isn’t trying to meticulously capture every detail, but rather, he's hinting at form and texture using washes of color. I imagine he was interested in the effect of light – how it softens the edges and flattens the space. Does it evoke any personal memories for you? Editor: It reminds me a bit of my grandmother's kitchen. She had a collection of old pottery, not exactly like this, but with a similar rustic charm. I appreciate how Cox captured the quiet dignity of everyday objects. The almost abstract rendering allows us to focus on their essence. Curator: Exactly! It's about the poetry of the ordinary, wouldn’t you agree? Also, this watercolor looks quite old; the way it presents form makes it special, which is enhanced by the effects of light and shadowing that create a visual and aesthetic tension. It is also a game of perspective: it's both flat and three dimensional. Almost expressionist, don't you think? Editor: I see what you mean. It does push the boundaries of traditional still life. Thank you, I wouldn’t have spotted those elements without your guidance. Curator: My pleasure. Looking at art together is an experience to be savored and I like the freshness of your insight!