Crock c. 1940

John Tarantino made this drawing of a crock sometime in the 20th century, we're not sure exactly when. What strikes me first is the way he captures the crock's simple shape with these muted, earthy tones. You can almost feel the weight and texture of the clay, can't you? The blue decorations aren't trying to be perfect, and that's what makes them so alive. It's like each brushstroke is a little dance. The paint is applied in thin layers, allowing the paper's surface to peek through, which adds a kind of lightness. If you look closely at the lines around the body of the crock, you can see how they wobble ever so slightly, giving the whole piece a handmade feel. It reminds me a little of Morandi's still life paintings, you know, where everyday objects become these quiet, monumental forms. Ultimately, it's a reminder that art is about seeing the world with fresh eyes.