Art Theory Text with Sketches 1952

Curator: This curious piece, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums, is titled "Art Theory Text with Sketches" by Stuart Davis. Editor: My initial impression is that this feels like a stream of consciousness, a glimpse into the artist's creative process. Curator: Davis was deeply invested in exploring the theoretical underpinnings of abstract art, and this work on paper seems to capture his intellectual pursuit. He died in 1964. Editor: He highlights "size" over direction or color, which challenges conventional aesthetic hierarchies. Considering the social context of the mid-20th century, this emphasis on scale could be seen as a commentary on the growing dominance of mass culture. Curator: Absolutely. Davis was navigating a rapidly changing world. He was fascinated by how urban landscapes and consumer culture were reshaping our perceptions of art. Editor: It invites us to question how we assign value and meaning in an increasingly image-saturated society. "Size as absolute," what a statement. Curator: Indeed. It leaves me pondering the interplay between artistic intention and broader cultural forces. Editor: For me, it's a reminder to critically examine the assumptions that shape our understanding of art and the world around us.