Silk Kerchief c. 1937

Editor: This drawing is entitled *Silk Kerchief* by Percival Jenner, created around 1937. The red and yellow textile pattern almost vibrates. What strikes me is the strong symmetry, which gives a sense of controlled energy. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Initially, it's vital to observe the deployment of color. The high contrast between the red background and yellow pattern creates a stimulating visual tension, emphasizing the surface and asserting its two-dimensionality. We could analyse the use of pattern here, noticing its arrangement but also its break in form – a device with semiotic potential, pointing away from pure representation. What does the artist signal by slightly misaligning certain repeating figures? Editor: I hadn't noticed those slight misalignments! That makes me think about the artist's hand and process... the textile itself. Are these kinds of designs typically hand-drawn? Curator: Indeed. I believe those small imperfections are intentional, highlighting the human touch amidst a desire for controlled uniformity. In formalist terms, it allows a space for us to read intentionality of execution through visual assessment. The line work is clearly important, dictating much of the structure, do you see a possible relationship with similar drawing examples? Editor: Now that I'm paying closer attention to the line work, the repetition and alteration do create visual interest. And the interplay of color keeps my eye moving around the surface of the textile! Thank you. Curator: Likewise, your enthusiasm has enriched our reading of form, balance, and intentionality.