Lady's Bolero c. 1940

Syrena Swanson painted "Lady's Bolero" in watercolor, showing us both the front and back views of a short jacket. Its decorative features speak to the cultural values embedded in clothing. The bolero's design, with its zig-zag patterns and contrasting trim, suggests a garment intended for display. The care taken in its rendering elevates it beyond mere utility. As we consider the social conditions that shape artistic production, it's worth asking: who was the intended audience? Was Swanson commenting on social class through her choice of subject, or critiquing the institutions of art by depicting everyday objects? Delving into the material culture and fashion history of Swanson's time may offer some answers. Understanding the social life of clothing can inform how we interpret this artwork and the values it represents.