Infant's Dress c. 1936

Kathryn Uhl rendered this infant's dress using graphite on paper. The choice of graphite to depict an infant's dress, typically made of delicate, soft materials such as cotton or linen, is interesting. Graphite, known for its precision and ability to capture fine details, is used here to meticulously illustrate the intricate lace and fabric textures of the dress. The process of drawing each delicate fold and stitch imbues the artwork with a sense of care and attention, reflecting the labour involved in producing such a garment. The contrast between the industrial nature of graphite and the domestic craft of dressmaking highlights the changing dynamics of production and consumption in Uhl's time. The social significance lies in the depiction of domesticity, where the detailed rendering elevates a simple article of clothing to a symbol of maternal care and the labour involved in creating a nurturing home environment. By emphasizing materials, making, and context, Uhl challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty and significance of everyday objects.