Coverlet (Detail) c. 1936

This “Coverlet (Detail)” was made by Barnes, who lived between 1855 and 1995, and it gives us a peek into process. I love the way Barnes let’s us see the making in the marks. The image is dominated by a rich indigo and a creamy white, which, from this close-up view, resolves into a matrix of woven threads. The texture looks palpable, you can almost feel the give of the fabric. The dark blue anchors the entire composition, providing a ground against which the intricate weavings come forward. Each little knot and intersection feels deliberate, like a word in a carefully constructed poem. Take a look at the top corners. See how the indigo deepens and pools? It's like staring into a night sky. This piece reminds me a little of Anni Albers’ weaving work, and like her, Barnes seems to find endless possibilities within a limited vocabulary. It's not just about what you see, but also about the countless choices, adjustments, and happy accidents that turn raw material into something meaningful.