Reticule c. 1937

Editor: So here we have "Reticule," a watercolor drawing by Edna C. Rex from around 1937. It's… surprisingly captivating for an image of a small bag! I’m really drawn to the rich blue and the almost paisley-like designs on it. What stands out to you the most about this piece? Curator: Ah, "Reticule." It whispers secrets, doesn’t it? For me, it's that particular shade of blue—so much of that era was muted by comparison, yet Rex dove into an azure dream. I feel like I’m peering into a forgotten trunk in my grandmother's attic, filled with perfumed letters and theater tickets. The way the paisley-ish shapes sort of swim against that vibrant background hints at the dynamism contained within something we might see as so humble. Editor: A "dream" is exactly right. I noticed how the drawing is slightly asymmetrical. Do you think that contributes to its folk-art feel? Curator: Precisely. Imperfection becomes the point. You can almost *feel* her hand at work; that humanity enlivens it. What does folk-art mean to you here? Editor: I guess that the artist prioritized conveying the essence of the reticule’s design, not perfection, like with some of those little details along the opening. It feels like it's less about academic precision and more about personal expression. Curator: Bingo! Imagine Rex not just copying a bag, but dreaming one into being! Almost makes me want to write her a thank-you note, doesn't it? It all makes one think...how many beautiful ordinary things are there to discover anew if only we truly *saw*? Editor: Absolutely! Thanks, that gives me a lot to think about!