Doll and Costume c. 1937

Curator: This intriguing work on paper, created around 1937 by Mary E. Humes, is titled "Doll and Costume". Editor: My immediate impression is how whimsical it feels, almost like a fashion plate from a children's book. The sweeping lines of the dress and the figure’s doll-like proportions contribute to this effect. Curator: Humes was likely deeply influenced by the prevailing cultural fascination with historical fashion and portraiture that was fashionable between the wars, she was probably playing with ideas surrounding feminine presentation and idealization that would have been important to the socio-political narrative around women in the 1930s. Editor: Yes, and look at the interplay of textures. The smoothness of the toned paper contrasts beautifully with the delicate light pencil work of the doll itself, it is carefully balanced. And the eye is drawn around and around with those undulating, rhythmical stripes. Curator: Absolutely. One must consider what function such artwork had in those times. Likely part of the intimate experience of her personal sketchbook where many artist tried ideas, it tells so much about her vision. It really captures the artist's role as not only documentarian, but interpreter of cultural standards, shaping and influencing public taste through illustrations. Editor: I like your point that it allows insights into the artist's private and intimate spaces. Those historical context layers the work with more value in many levels. Looking at it, its inherent formalism—its balanced composition, the gentle gradations of light and shadow. A well constructed world which can offer some new understanding with time. Curator: A testament to art's lasting power. It sparks conversations across time about the meaning that each one see differently through different eras. Editor: It's a quiet and well composed statement. Art, even in its most unassuming form, has capacity to give unique experience.