Woman's Slippers c. 1937

Al Curry, who lived a long life of 140 years, gave us these "Woman's Slippers," which were created without a specified date using watercolour and graphite on paper. The paper is like aged parchment. The slippers are presented in this simple, yet formal style. Two slippers face the viewer and one is shown in profile. The artist's hand is evident in the delicate lines that define the slippers' forms and in the subtle gradations of color. The details of the decoration on the slipper, are described using fine brushstrokes. Look at the way Curry uses color, limiting the palette to primarily red and grey. He creates depth and volume through the layering of thin washes of colour, which creates a sense of softness. It reminds me of the work of Joseph Yoakum, with its playful approach to perspective. Ultimately, this work celebrates the small, intimate moments of everyday life. It reminds us that art can be found in the most unexpected places.