Jacquard 1935 - 1942

Arthur Merkley made this textile, Jacquard, probably around the middle of the 20th century, using woven cotton in just two colors. It feels like a dance between darkness and light. He layers these very simple botanical forms and American national emblems over a dark blue background. It’s quite a feat to create such a detailed composition with just two colors! The cotton gives the artwork a tactile quality, like a soft blanket. Each motif is carefully woven, with the white cotton contrasting against the blue background, creating an almost hypnotic effect. My eye keeps returning to the eagle at the bottom left, where the stars blur in a beautiful way. It feels so alive! Merkley's work reminds me a little of the quilts made by the women of Gee's Bend, who took humble materials and created works of art with an intense, almost spiritual presence. Like the Gee's Bend quilts, this weaving is a testament to how art can be found in the everyday, blurring the line between craft and fine art.