Plate 1 c. 1942

Curator: This work, "Plate 1", dates to around 1942 and was created by Louie H. Ewing. It appears to be a textile print or a design for one. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: I’m immediately struck by the controlled energy. The patterns are lively, almost like soundwaves visualized, yet they're contained within these defined, rectilinear forms. It's playful, but not chaotic. Does that make sense? Curator: Absolutely. I find that the combination of geometric forms and repetitive motifs creates this sense of pulsating visual rhythm. The use of zigzag lines is an ancient symbol; many cultures have used that for water. How about those stepped triangles that frame the work on top and bottom? Editor: Those strike me as referencing architectural forms, or perhaps even mountains – both symbols of stability, order, even divinity. The way they mirror each other makes me think of mirrored realms. They definitely contain the chaotic ripple and stop it from escaping, don’t they? Curator: I agree, those mirrored, containing edges really add to this idea of balance and regulated chaos. There is also an overwhelming echo of Navajo blankets in that composition. These objects aren't merely decorative; they tell stories, mark identities. Editor: Oh, definitely! The colors, that dusky rose with the deep indigo… They whisper of landscapes, of twilight and mesas. Do you think the choice of these colors holds a particular meaning, beyond aesthetics? Curator: Perhaps! Color, especially in textiles, often carries deep cultural significance. But without more information from the artist about the piece and intentions, it's hard to say for certain. Sometimes the connection exists only in our experience of the art, right? What a warm design though… if someone gave this to me as a blanket, I’d feel they understood my own orderly inner chaos! Editor: Exactly. I’m left with this lovely feeling, like finding harmony within yourself… maybe after drinking some hot cocoa. It invites you to nestle into that intricate world, and discover its secrets. It’s the order and repetition. So relaxing!