Wall Paper c. 1936

Hebilly West made this wallpaper design, we don't know exactly when or with what, but I can tell you what I see. With its flat planes of color, the design really embraces the idea of repetition and pattern making. When I look at it, I notice the contrast between the deep red and the beige background. The red shapes are laid on top, creating a layered effect. They almost vibrate against one another. I love how the artist uses these basic shapes, the tulip-like form, and the vertical lines, to create a rhythm that's both soothing and visually stimulating. It reminds me of Matisse, but also of some anonymous folk art. That central tulip motif, it's not trying to be perfect, or realistic. It's this solid, slightly wonky form, and that imperfection gives it character. It feels human, like a handprint on the wall. And isn't that what we want from art? To feel connected, to see the world through someone else's eyes, even if just for a moment?