Doorway, Heckingham Church 1813 - 1823

John Sell Cotman made this watercolor of the Heckingham Church doorway with pencil and washes on paper. The very qualities of the work are of understated beauty. Observe how Cotman, an expert in his craft, uses the materiality of his chosen media to influence the appearance of the work. His light washes seem to mimic the qualities of the stone itself, its weight and texture. Look at how he has deployed his skill in watercolor to offer us a glimpse into the social and cultural significance of this church. This artistic approach, where the artist engages directly with the material and processes, demonstrates how craft and fine art practices are closely intertwined. It encourages us to appreciate the labor, traditions, and techniques involved in the creation of art, rather than fixating on a separation between 'high art' and 'craft.'