Untitled 

Paul Ranson created this untitled painting, using oil on canvas, sometime in the late 19th century. The texture of the canvas is quite apparent, as the loose weave is easily visible through the translucent layers of paint. Look closely, and you’ll see how Ranson has allowed the weave to peek through the paint, adding depth to the composition. Rather than create an illusionistic picture, he embraced the materiality of paint, and the process of applying it to cloth. The visible brushstrokes further emphasize the handmade quality of the artwork. Ranson’s use of thin layers creates a vibrant, luminous surface. There is a sense of immediacy and directness in his approach. The contrast between the refined subject matter and the rough, handmade texture challenges our traditional notions of fine art. It invites us to consider the value of craft, and the importance of recognizing the human labor involved in the creation of an artwork.