Cigar Store Indian c. 1938

Charles Bowman made this drawing, titled Cigar Store Indian, using watercolor. I love the way the colors are built up, almost like he's sculpting with pigment. It’s like Bowman is exploring the form and texture of the original carved figure through the layering of translucent washes. See how the brown of the figure is subtly modeled with hints of green and gold? There's something really interesting about how he’s translated a three-dimensional object into a two-dimensional space. Look at the way he handles the light and shadow on the figure's face and clothing. It's not just about representation, it's about capturing the essence of the object, its history, and its cultural significance. It reminds me of the work of Joseph Stella, who also explored American iconography with such curiosity and respect. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art is an ongoing conversation and exchange of ideas.