-Elephant on Tub c. 1920 - 1934

This little cast iron sculpture of an elephant on a tub was made by the A.C. Williams Company. The simple color palette, silver, red and gold, remind me of making art with limited resources as a child, mixing colours, getting unexpected results, but still ending up with something beautiful and expressive. The chipped and worn surface of the piece reveals layers of history and use. The texture and physicality of the medium invite touch, the elephant’s trunk curves around, inviting you to grab on! I think of how the original maker must have carefully crafted the mold, and how each casting would have been slightly different. The elephant looks like he’s enjoying his bath! The piece embodies the playful spirit of folk art, reminding me a little of the sculptures of H.C. Westermann, in its simplicity and charm. It demonstrates how art can be found in unexpected places. It also reminds me that art is always an ongoing conversation, building on what came before, and open to multiple interpretations.