Reticule c. 1937

Editor: This is "Reticule," a watercolor and drawing created around 1937 by Ann Gene Buckley. It’s quite striking; the red and gold give it such a luxurious feel, almost like a miniature treasure chest. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, yes, I get that treasure chest vibe completely! For me, it whispers secrets of bygone eras, a flirtatious glance back to a time when even the most everyday objects held a certain mystique. It’s funny how something as simple as a purse can become this evocative time capsule, isn't it? You know, what’s more amazing to me is that the artist did such a wonderful job with watercolors. What are your impressions about her skill? Editor: The detail is great, it's almost photographic! Did people really use such ornate bags on a regular basis? Curator: Perhaps not “regularly,” but the craftsmanship! You can tell there’s such a personal connection between Buckley and her art! It's the artist’s vision that elevates ordinary objects into objects of dreams. Don't you think that's interesting? Editor: Definitely! It makes you wonder about the stories those bags could tell. Thanks for your perspective! Curator: My pleasure! Maybe it is also a personal narrative...art for arts' sake... something that many young people struggle with even today!