Chinese Altar Tray c. 1939

Editor: Here we have a watercolor painting from around 1939 entitled “Chinese Altar Tray” by Vera Van Voris. It strikes me as quite humble; almost like a child’s rendering, capturing the texture and aging of the wood, but with somewhat flat colors. What catches your eye? Curator: It's funny you say "humble," because to me, that’s its strength! It's not trying to be grand or perfect. It reminds me of a snapshot – not a photograph, mind you, but a captured feeling. The colors, yes, they are muted. But doesn't that flatness invite you closer, to see the detail, to imagine the lives that may have placed offerings on it? What stories could this tray tell? Editor: That's an interesting point. The watercolor technique emphasizes the grain of the wood in a way a photograph couldn’t, now that you mention it. And the muted tones lend it a sense of authenticity, like it was created as a quick impression of this everyday, functional object. I still wonder what stories an altar tray could share! Curator: Think of what an altar signifies: intention, spirituality, maybe even just quiet moments. This painting is like a whisper of those acts. And as for Van Voris, the painter…it offers a personal meditation. Did you know watercolor painting and the philosophy of meditation and mindfulness are profoundly connected. Is Van Voris inviting us to look closely? Editor: Absolutely, the more you discuss the meditative quality the more the piece takes on new light. Perhaps I initially focused on the aesthetic aspects rather than what the object truly represents! I’m glad we spoke about it today! Curator: Me too! It's delightful when a simple tray, beautifully rendered, opens up so much more. A little window into seeing...isn’t that something?