The Wake c. 1935 - 1942

Curator: Editor: Edgar Imler’s “The Wake,” dating from around 1935 to 1942, is a woodcut print, rendered in stark blacks and whites. It has a somewhat grim atmosphere. What historical narratives do you see reflected in this work? Curator: It's compelling to consider the social dynamics inherent in this scene. The wake, a gathering to honor the deceased, traditionally allows for expressions of grief but also provides a sanctioned space for community and social regulation. The visual contrast between the brightly lit, seemingly more composed figures in the inner room and the darker, almost rowdy group on the left suggests a tension between acceptable expressions of mourning and perhaps, marginalized or unconventional responses to loss. What power dynamics might be at play? Editor: I hadn't considered that contrast in such detail! Is there a comment being made about societal expectations of grieving during the depression era? Curator: Possibly. The Great Depression profoundly impacted social structures, creating widespread anxiety and altering norms around community support and displays of emotion. How might this gathering serve as a temporary refuge, both emotionally and perhaps even materially, amidst the hardships of the time? Editor: So the artist may be pointing out how vulnerable people can become during hard times. It’s fascinating how a seemingly simple genre scene can reveal layers of social commentary when viewed through a historical lens. Curator: Exactly. Art like this helps us question the relationship between public performance, private emotions, and historical circumstances. Hopefully you’ll be considering those angles in your work going forward. Editor: I definitely will! This was really helpful in widening my perception, thanks so much!