Candlestick c. 1937

Janet Riza rendered this candlestick using graphite and colored pencil. The candlestick, a humble object, carries the profound weight of history and human experience. As a source of light, it pierces the darkness, resonating with our primal need for illumination, reminiscent of ancient torches that lit the caves of our ancestors. Throughout history, the candle has symbolized hope, guidance, and even the divine. Think of the menorah in Jewish tradition or the candles in Christian churches; each flame signifies spiritual enlightenment and remembrance. Even in our modern age, where electric lights dominate, the flicker of a candle evokes a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. The candlestick, therefore, is more than a mere object; it is a vessel of collective memory, connecting us to the rituals and emotions of generations past. It serves as a potent symbol of continuity and the enduring human spirit.