Frontiersman Doll c. 1937

Curator: Geo. J. File created this artwork, "Frontiersman Doll", around 1937, utilizing graphite and watercolor. Editor: The muted tones give it a somber feel, almost ghostly. The depiction, from front and back, is meticulously detailed, particularly the fringed garments. It reminds me of documentation, or even a pattern for crafting. Curator: The technique is interesting, focusing on the representation of craft through the medium of watercolor on paper. This period often saw a renewed interest in folk art and traditional crafts, sometimes as a response to increasing industrialization and mass production. Editor: Exactly. It is also quite a rigid rendering of the figure, front and back as you pointed out, and devoid of emotion; very matter-of-fact, even. I am thinking of a ritual significance or some form of societal belonging that is denoted in these details of clothing? What would you make of the zigzag motif featured on the sash? Curator: Considering it depicts a "Frontiersman Doll," it might speak to the romanticized vision of pioneer life during the 1930s. Perhaps the zigzag mimics a crude decorative application? Also, that bright blue pouch. It could have been introduced by settlers trading fabrics. Editor: The blue really does pop against the natural palette of the doll and, the geometric figures speak to craft, indeed. I think there is some interesting contrast in what the object is and what is represented here: it depicts something naturalistic, with obviously very manufactured components to be viewed. Curator: The juxtaposition of organic materials, like buckskin suggested by the watercolor, with manufactured elements like the pouch speaks to trade and the integration of different production methods within this perceived pioneer experience. This watercolor becomes, itself, an artifact referencing these interwoven relationships. Editor: Definitely, this has allowed for such a revealing consideration of identity through folk-art interpretation and the layered symbolism behind the details rendered with such clear dedication.