Basket c. 1935

This is a drawing of a basket made by Michael Trekur, but we don't know exactly when. It's rendered with a delicate touch, a web of fine lines that suggest the woven texture of the original object. The palette is restrained, almost monochromatic, focusing attention on the intricate patterns. It’s a great example of how an image can capture the essence of a thing, while also being its own thing. Looking at the surface, you can almost feel the texture of the basket, even though it's just lines on paper. The geometric motifs—zigzags, diamonds, and those stepped lines—create a visual rhythm that’s both pleasing and intriguing. It's interesting how Trekur uses these simple shapes to create such a complex and visually engaging form. I am drawn to the level of detail he captures. This drawing reminds me of the work of Agnes Martin, who also used simple lines and grids to create a sense of calm and order. Both artists seem to understand that art is not just about what you see, but about how you see it. And this drawing invites us to see the beauty in the everyday, the extraordinary in the ordinary.