Wall Paper c. 1937

John Garay made this "Wall Paper" design sometime between 1855 and 1995, most likely with gouache on paper. The way he’s laid down the colours, it's clear that artmaking for Garay was a considered, deliberate process. The surface has a smooth, almost matte quality, hinting at the opaque nature of the gouache. Looking closely, you can see how the repeated leaf motif has been built up with layers of blue and gray, each stroke carefully placed to create a sense of depth and volume. It's not just about replicating a form; it's about feeling it into being. And those delicate vines with tiny flowers? They’re not just decorative, they remind me of Matisse's paper cut-outs, playful but precise. Garay’s design feels like a conversation across time, a connection to the ongoing dialogue of art. Ultimately, it's a reminder that art is never truly finished, but always open to interpretation, evolution, and endless possibilities.