Retired Southern Style c. 1936

Curator: Here we have Philip Cheney's woodcut, "Retired Southern Style," created around 1936. Editor: My first impression is tranquility, a stark black and white scene of leisure and rest. Curator: The title offers an immediate context. We can assume the figure represents someone in the Southern United States at that time, during the interwar era after Reconstruction. But "retired" could be interpreted in multiple ways. Is it an actual retiree, or perhaps a reference to an older mode of life in the South? Editor: It’s interesting to consider how Cheney uses the symbolic language of light and dark. The figure, a symbol of supposed relaxation, is cast in a strong, illuminating white, in stark contrast to the darker natural backdrop and shadow lines etched around him. This has spiritual implications, no? What does that visual choice mean? Curator: Exactly. There is that contrast, visually speaking but perhaps racially and class wise, too. And consider Cheney's choice of woodcut; it aligns him with other socially conscious artists of the time who sought to portray everyday people and comment on social issues with strong messaging. The Black Arts Movement comes to mind as well. Editor: There’s also something archetypal here in the imagery, from a cultural psychology standpoint. Think of how trees themselves have stood as emblems of longevity, protection, peace, and a general steadfastness across countless societies and belief systems. Curator: That’s astute, particularly in relation to the history of the South during this period and beyond, to today. Black Americans still seeking repose. This may underscore some form of aspirational message of "progress." A symbol perhaps for stability in the American south. Editor: It prompts questions about legacy, really, who gets to find refuge, how it's visually presented and immortalized, and by whom. A very thoughtful depiction. Curator: Absolutely, seeing how Cheney positions his Black subject brings forth many complex perspectives relevant still today. Editor: Yes, an incredibly thought-provoking work. Thanks to this dialogue I understand the image from new point of views.