Cast Iron Hitching Post c. 1941

V.L. Vance made this drawing, Cast Iron Hitching Post, with graphite and watercolor. It’s the kind of piece that gets you thinking about how art can freeze a moment, but also keep it alive. Look at how the graphite gives a real sense of depth and texture to the post and the dog on top, while the watercolor softens everything, almost like a memory. The column has these visible brushstrokes that give the drawing a physical presence, grounding it in a process. I keep coming back to the dog's face. There's a solemnity to it, but also something a little absurd. It’s like Vance captured a whole personality with just a few strokes. This work reminds me a little of Red Grooms, in the way that it has an interest in the every day, elevated with humor and a great feel for materials. It’s a nice reminder that art doesn’t always have to be serious to be profound.