Sick Lamp c. 1937

Edward White made this drawing, Sick Lamp, at some point in his lifetime. He's taken a humble, everyday object and given it center stage. The lamp sits, still and quiet, but there's a slight tremor to the hand-drawn line. I wonder what he was thinking when he made it? Was he interested in its pure form, or did it have a personal significance? It's a simple composition, yet it speaks volumes about the beauty that can be found in the mundane, and how an artist’s careful attention can elevate an object from obscurity. I’m reminded of Giorgio Morandi who spent his life indoors making paintings of bottles, cans, and boxes. Artists are always learning from one another and finding new ways to express themselves through their work. So much can be communicated through subtle movements, tones, or marks, and often meaning is found by looking closely and taking the time to really see.