Plate c. 1900

Editor: Here we have an intriguing ceramic and glass piece titled "Plate," created around 1900. The deep blue is mesmerizing, but something about its simplicity feels almost…defiant. How do you interpret this work, considering the context of decorative arts at the turn of the century? Curator: It’s interesting that you use the word 'defiant.' Consider the Arts and Crafts movement rising during that time. It was largely in response to industrialization and mass production, and a yearning to value the individual artisan, manual skill and accessible art. The deep blue color becomes politically potent: what statement is made through a stark glasswork at a time of mechanization, or during new movements of consumerism? What statement would *you* make? Editor: So the plate becomes less about decoration, and more about…rebellion, maybe? Curator: Exactly. Who has access to beautiful art is questioned; what work gets deemed important is challenged; which techniques get lauded or left out of the historical narrative gains center stage. Does the artist’s anonymity amplify that? Editor: It certainly does! The lack of a known creator emphasizes the movement rather than the individual. Curator: Yes, and further expands our contemporary discourse to decolonize art histories; challenging established canons is integral to creating a future we want to see. Now I’m left wondering: how might our contemporary glassmakers build upon those initial values championed over a century ago? Editor: That's such an interesting way to view this humble plate – as a quiet yet powerful statement about art, labor, and accessibility. Thank you. Curator: Thank you; it is refreshing to reflect on the voices from the past and what that encourages us to champion today.