Tea Caddy 1940

Marie Lutrell made this watercolor on paper, of a Tea Caddy. The palette here is so restrained, almost monochromatic, which makes me think of the quiet, reflective process of sitting down to drink tea. Look at the surface quality, the way the watercolor pools and settles, creating these subtle gradations. The delicate washes build up to create form, but it’s more than just representational. Luttrell coaxes an emotionality from the materials. My eye keeps going back to the heart-shaped lock on the front. It's this tiny focal point of warmth and security, like a secret whispered in the corner of a room. Luttrell reminds me of some of the folk artists I admire, like Bill Traylor, who made work in a similarly quiet and observant way. Ultimately, it’s a testament to the power of humble materials, and the magic that can happen when someone approaches them with focused intention.