Chest c. 1938

Frances Lichten made this ‘Chest’ with watercolor and graphite on paper, and it’s a reminder that art can be found anywhere, in any object. Here, Lichten's choice of watercolor lends a softness to the sturdy form of the chest. The delicate washes of color create a beautiful tension between the object's function and its artistic representation. Look closely at the floral motifs within the arched panels. Each brushstroke feels considered, yet the overall effect is one of charming simplicity. The color palette is earthy, with muted blues and reds dominating, giving it a grounded and almost dreamlike quality. The painting reminds me of the work of Milton Avery, especially in the way that colors are layered to create depth and mood. Just as Avery found beauty in everyday scenes, Lichten elevates a common household item to a work of art, blurring the lines between utility and aesthetics. Art is not just what hangs on walls; it's also in the stories we tell, the objects we cherish, and the way we choose to see the world.