Petticoat (in process) c. 20th century

This "Petticoat (in process)," of indeterminate date by an anonymous artist is a tantalizing glimpse into a world of patient, loving labor. The near-monochrome palette and repetitive marks are what hits me first. It’s all about touch, isn't it? The physicality of the thread, the way it catches the light, and the dance of the needle. Look closely, and you can almost feel the rhythm of the maker's hand as they build up each leaf and petal. Some of the design is a barely-there sketch, like a ghost, a roadmap of the artist's intention, with other areas built up using dense, white embroidery. This contrast speaks to the work-in-progress nature of the piece. The work reminds me of some of Agnes Martin's grid paintings, in the dedication to a repetitive process, and, also like Martin, it suggests that art is about the journey, not just the destination. This petticoat isn't just an object; it's a testament to the power of process, and a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful things are the ones we make ourselves.