Wall Paper Border Design c. 1936

Frances Lichten made this watercolor "Wall Paper Border Design" on paper and it's really something. There's a sense of freedom and play in her mark-making. The artwork is so alive with texture, color, and surface. The paint isn't trying to hide anything. It looks like she used thin washes, letting the paper peek through, which gives it a light, airy feel. And those tassels! Each one is rendered with such care, like she’s celebrating the simple joy of making marks. The colors are muted, almost vintage, which adds to the charm. Looking at the blue floral details, they almost feel like little bursts of joy scattered across the design. The repetition of these elements creates a rhythm, a visual beat that keeps your eye moving across the surface. It's got a slightly Matisse-like quality. It’s like she’s inviting us to see the world with a fresh, playful perspective.