Woman's Slippers c. 1936

Editor: This lovely drawing is titled "Woman's Slippers" from around 1936, made with pen, watercolor, and paper by Lillian Causey. It reminds me of a fashion plate. What do you make of this work? Curator: I see a reflection of societal aspirations in this humble rendering of footwear. The delicate floral patterns adorning the slippers speak volumes. What do flowers often represent in art, especially concerning femininity? Editor: Oh, beauty, growth, maybe a certain fragility? Curator: Precisely! And think of shoes themselves—they carry us through life, protect us on our journey. They represent movement, but also status. Note the heel height, not for practicality, but style. This wasn't meant for utility, but rather as adornment for a particular segment of society. Consider also the drawing style - its purpose was to evoke the aspiration. It seems less concerned with replicating a literal shoe and is far more focused on its essence. This is an idealized image more than an exact portrait. Don’t you think? Editor: Yes, definitely idealized! It makes me think about the dreams and aspirations attached to fashion. Curator: Exactly. It shows us a little piece of how women were seen and wanted to be seen in the 1930s. Objects like these shoes can embody all that we project onto them. Editor: That is so interesting! It’s like the slippers aren’t just shoes; they’re tiny time capsules of social meaning. Curator: Precisely, encapsulating dreams and desires within simple outlines. The study of these items helps connect with both memory and aspirations.