Sketch of an Old Woman; verso: Sketch of an Old Man 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we see William Valentine Schevill’s ink sketch of an old woman and, on the verso, an old man. They both seem quite stoic. What do you see in this double portrait? Curator: These sketches remind us that art-making is always embedded within social contexts. These works evoke a sense of societal roles. The artist captures the dignity of aging figures, reflecting on changing social dynamics. Editor: So, the artist might be making a statement about how we view older people? Curator: Precisely! Consider how institutions like museums display and value certain narratives. Schevill's work prompts us to consider who is seen and unseen in society. What have you learned? Editor: I now see how art can reveal the politics of representation.