Billethead c. 1939

Marian Page made this 'Billethead' drawing, and the date is unknown but she lived from 1855-1995. I love how the stark contrast between the black and the gold carves out a space for our attention. It's a simple palette, yes, but look at the dance between the two. There's an assertiveness here that belies the simplicity of the means. The golden swirls feel like butter, thick and creamy against the matte black. The artist seems to have delighted in the physical properties of her medium. The brushstrokes on the black portion are shorter, more agitated, while the gold unfolds in elongated sweeps and tight curls. It’s like the drawing itself is breathing, expanding and contracting. I find that little curl at the very edge particularly delicious. It reminds me of some of those art deco posters from the early 20th century, with their streamlined shapes. Ultimately, it's a testament to the endless possibilities of art. There are no rules, only conversations.