Side Chair c. 1937

Jack Bochner made this drawing of a chair sometime in the 20th century. It's rendered in muted browns and tans, giving it a warm, antique feel. I imagine Bochner carefully observing the original chair, noting each curve and detail. He probably took his time to build up the layers of color, capturing the textures of the wood and the leather. The way he depicts the studs along the edges shows the work he put into the piece. It reminds me a little of the Shaker designs - that clean, functional aesthetic with a focus on craftsmanship. You can see how artists and designers like Bochner were looking back to those traditions, finding inspiration in simple forms and quality materials. His drawing captures the essence of the chair but also brings his own sensibility to it. It's like he's having a conversation with the past.