"Sparking" Lamp c. 1938

"Sparking" Lamp is a drawing made with pencil by John Dana, though it is not dated. The drawing has a gentle, almost faded quality, like a memory half-recalled. The artist's hand is evident in the delicate lines used to define the shape of the lamp. I love how the cross hatching creates the illusion of transparency and light. The lamp seems to glow from within. The spiral grooves catch the light and create an interesting texture. The subtle shading suggests a volume that is full and generous. It's a simple object, but the artist's careful attention to detail elevates it. In a similar fashion to Giorgio Morandi, the drawing of a simple thing is an attempt to understand the world through intimate observation. It reminds us that art can be found in the everyday.