Weather Vane c. 1936

This weather vane rendering, made with graphite and watercolor by Edward Loper, is so cool, right? The palette is muted, almost monochromatic, which gives it a sense of quiet observation, like a study. It really highlights the art of looking closely and carefully. You know, artmaking can be this gentle process of really seeing what’s in front of you. I find myself drawn to the texture Loper creates with such simple means. The graphite gives a metallic sheen, while the watercolor adds a subtle depth, especially in the sphere near the bottom. It’s like he’s exploring the potential of these materials, pushing them to mimic the qualities of metal and the way light plays on its surface. It’s interesting to note the diagrammatic sketch to the side of the primary object, a detail which could be metaphorically connected to the analytical process that is inherent to both art making and the rendering of technical drawings. Loper’s work, generally more expressive and colorful, sometimes reminds me of Fairfield Porter, in the way he captures the quiet beauty of everyday scenes. Art is just this ongoing conversation, right? Always echoing, always changing.