Textile c. 1936

James Vail created this textile design, we don't know when, using watercolor and graphite on paper. It’s a sea of blues and whites, floral patterns intermingling with classical columns and birds, creating a complex composition that feels both historical and somehow very contemporary. Looking closely, the watercolor is applied with a light touch, almost translucent in areas, allowing the paper’s texture to peek through. The blues range from deep indigo to the palest sky, creating a sense of depth and movement across the surface. I'm drawn to the bird perched on top of one of the columns, with the patriotic shield motif on its chest. It's a detail that adds a layer of narrative to the overall design. This piece reminds me of the work of designers like William Morris, who combined nature with decorative arts. It's a reminder that art is always in conversation with what came before, and that the most interesting work often comes from these kinds of exchanges.