Plate 9 1940 - 1943

Louie H. Ewing created this image, Plate 9, using what looks like screen printing. It’s a tight, geometric composition dominated by a muted palette of pinks, blues, and greens. I wonder what the process of making this was like, what the artist was thinking? It makes me think about Navajo blankets. The weaving of blankets, the way they become stories or maps. Maybe Ewing wanted to create a similar feeling of warmth and security? The paint seems applied in even layers, each horizontal line has a purpose, a direction. Every mark looks carefully placed but not too perfect. It reminds me of the work of Agnes Martin with its repetitive patterns and the way they can be meditative. Ultimately, art is an ongoing exchange of ideas. Each artist responds to what they’ve seen, felt, and experienced, and then adds their own voice to the conversation. Ewing embraced ambiguity and uncertainty, allowing for multiple interpretations. What do you think it means?