Clothes Wringer c. 1939

Herndon Hightower made this drawing of a clothes wringer, we don't know exactly when, but it's rendered with a quiet, considered touch. The palette is muted, almost monochromatic, focusing on the textures and forms rather than vibrant color. It's like Hightower is inviting us to slow down, to really see the object and the artmaking process. I love the way he captures the materiality of the wringer – the rough-hewn wood, the aged metal. Look closely at the rollers, those horizontal lines, rendered with such precision. Each one a testament to patience, and to a real, lived understanding of the object. It's not just about representation; it's about bringing the object to life. For me, this piece relates to the tradition of folk art, where everyday objects become imbued with meaning through the act of careful observation. It reminds me of Charles Sheeler, with his own reverence for industry, but with a more tender, intimate approach. There's a quietness here, a celebration of the mundane, that feels deeply human. And really makes you appreciate the process of seeing.