Woman's Slipper c. 1938

Adele Brooks created this watercolour artwork, "Woman's Slipper". The rhythmic alternation of vibrant red and somber dark blue stripes immediately catches the eye, creating a dynamic visual experience. The regular pattern disrupts any sense of the slipper being a static object, instead suggesting a dynamic interplay of form and color. The stripes follow the contours of the slipper, accentuating its shape while simultaneously flattening the image. This tension between dimensionality and flatness destabilizes the viewer's perception, pushing beyond the conventional representation. Brooks plays with the semiotic potential of color and form. The vibrant red, often associated with energy and passion, contrasts with the dark blue, symbolizing depth and mystery. These colors, combined with the unexpected pattern, invite us to question fixed notions of feminine attire. This slipper becomes less about fashion and more about an exploration of how simple visual elements can challenge and expand our understanding.