Side of Confessional Chair 1935 - 1942

Editor: Here we have "Side of Confessional Chair," a watercolor drawing made sometime between 1935 and 1942 by Harry Mann Waddell. It's remarkable how ornate this confessional is; the wood almost glows. What jumps out at you when you see this, professor? Curator: Oh, it whispers stories, doesn't it? Waddell invites us into a sacred space, though it feels a touch voyeuristic, doesn't it? Consider the choice to depict only the side, veiled by that heavy curtain. It’s as though we’re eavesdropping, peeking into a moment of vulnerability. Are we invited, or are we intruding, do you think? Editor: That's an interesting question. I hadn't thought of it that way. Maybe both? What about the materiality? How does the medium contribute to this mood? Curator: Exactly! The delicate watercolor almost softens the rigid structure of the confessional. The hard lines and sharp angles, symbolic of rules and repentance, are washed over with a translucent grace. He uses the qualities of the water to almost smudge the boundaries, physical and moral. Isn't it interesting how something as structured as a confessional can still invite introspection in the viewer? Editor: It's fascinating how the watercolor makes it feel more intimate, despite being a drawing of an object. Curator: Yes, and notice the colour choices! Subdued tones of brown and beige...they invite contemplation rather than spectacle. Waddell knew what he was doing. The colour itself echoes the humility expected during confession! He’s saying confession isn’t flashy; it's raw, honest, and, at times, even a bit drab. Editor: I'm definitely seeing it in a new light now. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! It's the layers, always the layers. Keep digging!