Art Theory Text with Space Division Diagram 1941

Editor: This is Stuart Davis's "Art Theory Text with Space Division Diagram". It's a small sketch, featuring handwriting and a simple geometric form. It feels like a glimpse into the artist's process. What strikes you about this work? Curator: Well, I see a focus on the physical act of making. Look at the handwritten text – it's about altering direction and position. How does this connect to the historical context of art versus craft, and the role of artistic labor? Editor: So, you're saying the value is in the thinking, the manual labor of writing and drawing, rather than the polished final product? Curator: Precisely. And consider the material - paper, pencil. Common, accessible tools. This challenges notions of high art requiring precious materials. What does that say about Davis's view of art's accessibility and value? Editor: It’s interesting to think about how the materials used reflect the artist's ideas about art and its value. I'll definitely think about that more.