Chalkware Greyhound c. 1941

Gertrude Koch made this drawing of a chalkware greyhound at some point in her long life. It's unassuming, and you could pass it by, but the gentle washes of color reward closer looking. Koch's greyhound is rendered in soft grey tones, with tiny dabs of pink in its ears – a little spark of life. The dog rests on a base lined with yellow, that's both decorative and a little absurd. I love the way the paint is applied so thinly, allowing the paper's texture to come through, like a memory. There’s a stillness to this piece, but also a real sense of touch. For me, the slightly clumsy rendering of the dog’s paws is particularly charming. They remind me of a child's drawing, and the whole piece has that quality. It’s a humble work, and perhaps that's what makes it so endearing. It reminds me of the work of Bill Traylor in its simplicity and directness. These are works that feel deeply personal, made with a quiet intensity and not trying too hard, and that, to me, is very beautiful.