This hooked rug was made by Elizabeth Valentine, sometime between 1855 and 1955, and I'm immediately drawn into the interplay of its colors and textures. Looking closely, it's clear that the artist had a deep understanding of how different colors can vibrate against each other to create a sense of movement. The muted greens and earthy reds of the border create a frame for the explosion of floral colors at the center. I can imagine her carefully selecting each strand of yarn, considering its texture and how it would interact with the surrounding colors. What I love most about this rug is its handmade quality; there's a certain humbleness to its creation that I find deeply appealing. Much like my painting practice, the making is the thing that matters. I'm reminded of the work of Ree Morton, who used humble materials to create these expansive worlds. Both artists seem to embrace ambiguity, allowing the work to remain open to interpretation.