Vase c. 1936

Here we see "Vase," a captivating work by John Tarantino, likely crafted with watercolor or gouache. The immediate visual experience is dominated by a rich, monochromatic purple, which saturates the form of the vase against a neutral background. This creates a striking contrast, immediately drawing the eye. The composition here relies on the play of light and shadow across the vase’s fluted surface, lending it a sculptural quality. Tarantino employs a formal structure to create a sense of depth and dimensionality. The vase, though static, seems to exude a sense of vertical movement, which is emphasized by its elongated form and the subtle variations in color intensity. This artwork’s power resides in its formal properties, transcending a mere representation to become an exploration of color, form, and the very essence of visual perception. It challenges us to reconsider the semiotic potential inherent in everyday objects, transforming the vase into a vessel brimming with aesthetic and conceptual possibility.