Jar c. 1937

Editor: Here we have Yolande Delasser’s "Jar," a watercolor and drawing from around 1937. The flowers feel abstracted, almost like a pattern repeated on the jar above. What are your thoughts on how the composition contributes to the overall feeling of the piece? Curator: Notice how the Delasser employs line and shape to establish a clear distinction between the jar and the floral motif. The jar is presented with sparse lines and minimal detail. In contrast, the rendering of the flora presented at the bottom of the work uses graded color tonality to convey its contours. Do you perceive this contrast influencing our understanding of the image’s organization? Editor: I think it does! The outlined jar appears more symbolic, while the close-up of the flower feels more representational. Like they are meant to highlight two distinct views of similar content, separated not by the object per se, but by their mode of appearance. It is as though two entirely different grammars co-exist in this drawing. Curator: Precisely. We are meant to regard them separately, despite the evident association. Consider the background, with its neutral tint, in relation to the vivid presentation of botanical elements, drawing out distinctions. Would you agree? Editor: Definitely. It emphasizes the shape and texture of the petals, and the contrast does allow you to appreciate how carefully it's all composed. Thank you, this has opened up new dimensions to consider. Curator: It's through attentive looking and critical discussion that artworks continue to evolve. This has been enlightening for me, as well.