Valance (section) c. 1936

This is a section of a valance made by Helen E. Gilman, we don’t know exactly when, using watercolor. Look closely, and you can see how the watercolour is applied thinly, almost transparently, which lets the texture of the fabric breathe through. The colours are delicate and faded, as if remembering a dream. There’s a real tenderness to the way the bird is perched on the branch, caught in a moment of stillness and contemplation. It’s fascinating how the artist has captured the softness of the bird’s feathers and the roughness of the branch with such simple means. I find myself thinking of the work of Agnes Martin, who also used delicate washes of colour to create a sense of quiet and contemplation. It’s a reminder that art is not just about making a statement, but also about creating a space for reflection, and embracing ambiguity.