Flat Iron Holder c. 1937

Curator: So, this is "Flat Iron Holder," a watercolor and wood drawing created around 1937 by Vincent McPharlin. Editor: It’s interesting how a utilitarian object is elevated to art through this medium. What do you see in this piece that speaks to you? Curator: For me, it’s the focus on the means of production that grabs attention. Look at how McPharlin details the materiality – the texture of the wood, the rendering through watercolors. This isn't just about representing an object; it's about showcasing the craft, labor, and materials used in its creation and in the creation of its representation. How the process creates value. Editor: I see what you mean. He's drawing attention to something ordinary through an artistic lens. What is your opinion about that choice? Curator: Absolutely! We should question who gets to define what's "art" and what's "craft." By depicting this everyday object with such detail, the artwork challenges the established hierarchy of the time. The use of muted colours and precise linework directs our focus towards the object's functionality within a domestic context, reflecting a subtle critique of the consumer culture, especially during the late 1930s. This invites a larger conversation about domestic labour and the artistry of working-class life. Do you think this image prompts the viewer to consider the social realities tied to these tools and settings? Editor: It makes me consider the effort put into something often overlooked. I appreciate seeing everyday objects presented this way now that you pointed that out. Curator: Precisely. It is not merely a visual representation but an invitation to contemplate the relationship between art, labor, and everyday existence. The beauty is not inherent in the object itself but the transformation it undergoes. Editor: That’s really fascinating! It definitely shifted my perspective, and I appreciate this different viewpoint of seeing how material choices influence art history. Curator: And I was also able to see from another viewpoint, a simple iron being highlighted as culturally relevant during that time.