Rush and Candle Stand c. 1939

This is Irene Lawson's drawing, ‘Rush and Candle Stand’. Lawson lived through a period marked by significant shifts in gender roles and expectations. In this work Lawson presents the image of a commonplace object. The drawing's precise lines reflect a commitment to documenting the everyday, reminiscent of scientific illustrations. But let’s linger on the subject: the candle stand itself, an object designed to hold and elevate light, a traditionally feminine symbol. By focusing on this humble item, Lawson subtly elevates its importance, suggesting the quiet strength and dignity found in domestic spaces. Consider the labor involved in creating such an object, the skill and care required to shape metal into a functional form. Lawson’s drawing celebrates the artistry inherent in this process, inviting us to appreciate the beauty and ingenuity of everyday design. In this image, we are reminded of the power of art to transform the mundane into something meaningful.