Fountain Figure c. 1938

Editor: This is Roberta Spicer's "Fountain Figure," made around 1938. It looks like a preparatory sketch rendered in pencil and possibly some charcoal, depicting a child standing on a rock with an umbrella. The way the forms are modeled feels very classical. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Seeing this drawing, I'm immediately thinking about the context of its creation: the late 1930s. Look closely at the execution—it is meticulous, clearly valuing traditional academic techniques. It encourages questions about the socio-economic conditions under which this artist was working and the very purpose behind its creation. Consider, what was the role of public art during this period? Editor: You’re right, there's definitely a deliberate choice being made here in emulating classical styles and subject matter, almost as a celebration of "traditional values." So, is this artwork advocating for something through the materials, style and subject that could provide clues about the socio-economic conditions and politics surrounding its creation? Curator: Exactly. It's less about what the fountain figure *represents* on a symbolic level and more about *why* an artist, at this time, was choosing to represent this particular figure, in this way, using these specific, very deliberate materials and the techniques for its rendering. What kind of audience was anticipated? What were the modes of display or production for public sculptures? Editor: That’s fascinating. Thinking about the 'how' and 'why' behind its construction sheds so much more light than focusing on symbolism alone. I see the 'fountain' aspect potentially highlighting access to public works as luxury. Curator: Precisely! That is where the heart of understanding art lies. Editor: I’ll never look at art the same way! Focusing on materials opens so many paths to the historical, economic and cultural context.