Plate 17: Grapes, Altar Panel: From Portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico" 1935 - 1942

Editor: We're looking at Plate 17: Grapes, an altar panel from the portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico," made between 1935 and 1942, using watercolor. I'm struck by how the pink background clashes beautifully with the teal-ish leaves, almost like a vibrant folk tapestry. What is your take on this piece? Curator: Oh, it sings to me of home and heritage! It is a humble piece that is somehow transcendent, no? I picture the artist, surrounded by New Mexico light, interpreting tradition through a distinctly personal lens. The somewhat naive rendering adds to its charm. Editor: Naive, yes, I see that! Like a child’s drawing elevated by skill. Do you see specific influences or inspirations? Curator: Absolutely! The echo of traditional Spanish colonial design is strong, yet it feels filtered through the American experience, with maybe a hint of art deco. The grapes themselves symbolize abundance and the sacred, connecting it to the altar panel designation, implying it held spiritual resonance for its creator and original audience. Don't you think so? Editor: It is compelling to consider that duality, and the choice to use grapes specifically. Almost like it is merging two identities or stories. Curator: Precisely! And maybe even a whisper of rebellion in its colour choices, it diverges from strict tradition! A silent but confident reinterpretation. What an elegant subversion. It warms my heart to consider the artist. Editor: It does recontextualize its colonial heritage through indigenized aesthetics, quite profoundly so. Curator: I completely agree! A visual bridge, linking the past and the present with grace. A reminder that beauty often resides in unexpected places, isn't it? Editor: Definitely. Now, I will keep an eye for details in less-known art like this!