Figurehead c. 1938

George Constantine made this watercolor of a Figurehead, and what strikes me is the patience and care he took to render the object so lovingly. I imagine him carefully studying the light as it fell across the object. Think about what it must have been like for Constantine, translating the three-dimensional form of the sculpture onto a two-dimensional plane. He seems very interested in the soft, subtle light, the almost imperceptible gradations of tone. The chalky, muted palette enhances the old-fashioned feel. I’m also drawn to the texture. You can almost feel the grain of the paper, the subtle brushstrokes of the paint. I am aware that this quiet, thoughtful watercolor opens a space of reverie around the artwork. It makes me want to look more closely. Ultimately, artists are in conversation across time, sharing ideas and inspiring each other's creativity. I find that such a hopeful prospect.