Hat Mannequin c. 1937

Howard Weld made this drawing, 'Hat Mannequin,' with ink on paper. It's a simple image, with strong lines against the creamy background, but somehow it feels like it's brimming with potential. The way Weld uses ink—so straightforward, so unapologetically flat—reminds me that artmaking can be about directness. The drawing is mostly outlines, just a few areas filled in. Look at the shape of the hair, or the hat, this solid black mass. Then there's that thin line across the body, implying a dress or maybe just the edge of a garment. The texture of the paper peeks through, giving it a raw, unfiltered feel. I love how these choices create a sense of depth, despite the flatness. The slightly pursed lips are just so great. It's like seeing echoes of artists like Alex Katz, who also played with flatness and bold simplicity. Art's an ongoing conversation, right? A mix of clarity and mystery— that's what keeps me hooked.