Santos (San Juan) 1939

Carl O'Bergh created this artwork "Santos (San Juan)" using watercolor and graphite on paper. The artist chose to depict the artwork on a heavily textured paper, which appears to replicate a piece of rough-hewn wood paneling. O'Bergh's intentional choice of materials creates an intriguing interplay between representation and reality. The depiction of "Santos (San Juan)" on the textured surface evokes a sense of history, craft, and folk art. It suggests the sacred object has been directly painted onto a salvaged piece of wood from everyday life, reminiscent of traditional devotional art found in churches or homes. The texture of the paper influences the painting’s appearance, mimicking the grain and imperfections inherent in the wood. This imbues the artwork with a tactile quality and a sense of authenticity, blurring the lines between fine art and craft. The deliberate act of replicating the look of a humble material raises questions about the value and status of different forms of artistic expression, inviting us to reconsider the social and cultural significance embedded within both the subject matter and the chosen medium.