Chair c. 1937

Frederick Jackson made this drawing of a chair with watercolor and graphite, but the date of its creation is unknown. Jackson's detailed rendering elevates a simple, functional object to a subject worthy of artistic attention. The drawing is a study of vernacular design, a term used to describe everyday, utilitarian objects made by local artisans using traditional methods. This aesthetic embodies the Arts and Crafts movement, which valued handcrafted items over mass-produced goods and sought to revive traditional crafts that were dying out due to industrialization in the United States. The movement championed the ideals of simplicity, honesty, and functionality in design. To further our understanding, we can consult archives of design history and period publications to discover the cultural significance of vernacular design and the Arts and Crafts movement, placing this artwork within its historical context. In doing so, we recognize that art is not created in a vacuum, but is shaped by social, economic, and cultural forces.