Golden Eagle c. 1941

Clarence W. Dawson rendered this 'Golden Eagle' with watercolor, his approach to mark-making feels precise yet organic, as if he's trying to capture not just the bird but its essence. Looking closely, the surface shimmers with delicate washes of color, almost transparent in places, building depth and texture. Dawson’s hand is visible in the meticulous detailing of the eagle’s feathers and the subtle gradations of tone on the orb it perches on. Notice the way the light catches the eagle's wings, each stroke carefully placed to convey form and volume. This attention to detail reminds me of some of the old masters, but with a folksy, homespun feel. Dawson shares a similar commitment to capturing the character of everyday objects that you see in the work of Charles Sheeler. Like Sheeler, he embraces the beauty of simple forms, transforming ordinary subjects into something extraordinary. These artists remind us that art is not just about representation, but about seeing the world with fresh eyes.