Opera 

Editor: This drawing by Erte, titled "Opera," I believe it's executed with ink on paper, immediately evokes a sense of theatrical elegance. There's such stylized depiction of these figures within a defined space. What can you tell us about its historical context, and how it reflects its time? Curator: Well, Erte's "Opera" places itself firmly within the Art Deco movement. The social history surrounding it points to a fascination with glamour, luxury, and theatricality that permeated the Roaring Twenties and continued into the 30s. The stylized figures, flat color, and geometric ornamentation echo stage design and the evolving image of the "modern woman" empowered and adorned in lavish ways. The public's relationship with visual media at this time -- consider how posters and magazines became key avenues for image dissemination and popularizing art styles -- absolutely played a part in this too. Do you see the hints of caricature in these figures? Editor: I do, especially around their exaggerated features. I'm curious; How did venues such as opera houses and theatres influence art like this? Curator: Massively. Opera houses weren't just performance venues, they were symbols of high culture and social status. Erte himself designed sets and costumes, so the performative and constructed nature of identity is core to this image's dialogue with its audience. Also, consider that the commercial success of Art Deco relies heavily on the democratization of "luxury." It cleverly puts what was formerly only accessible to the elite, into everyday designs affordable to a rising middle class, which of course helped ensure its popularity through different groups. What did you think it represented when you first saw this image? Editor: I honestly saw beauty, the flat colour and graphic depiction made me admire Erte’s boldness to use them! Thinking of democratization in access to art that you touched upon, makes this so much more profound now! Thanks for opening this image up! Curator: Absolutely! Analyzing art means thinking about not just aesthetics, but also who gets to participate in beauty, and how. I found myself learning a new appreciation today for how illustration became a great way for designers to share art that might inspire people, thanks!