Near Florence 

Editor: So, this watercolor, "Near Florence" by Francis Towne... it's striking how the artist uses washes to create a sense of depth. What's your take on this piece? Curator: Consider the paper itself: its texture, its source. How does that influence Towne’s application of watercolor? The pigment's origin matters too. Was it locally sourced, impacting color choices? Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't considered. So, the materials dictate the art in a way? Curator: In part, yes. Also, how does the accessibility of these materials reflect the social and economic context in which Towne was working? It affects production. Editor: I see now. Thinking about it as more than just a pretty landscape really opens it up. Curator: Precisely! It's a reminder that art is deeply connected to its material conditions.