Dress c. 1937

This dress, by Roberta Spicer, is rendered with pencil and watercolor on paper. The choice of these materials—typically used for preparatory sketches rather than finished works—hints at the artist's process. The loose, flowing lines and soft washes of color create a sense of movement and fluidity, mimicking the drape and texture of the actual fabric. It is possible to imagine the textures that the dress would have; the light, airy feel of the lace trim around the neckline, the smooth feel of the satin belt, and the delicate embroidered leaf design, on the skirt's hem, achieved through patient handwork. The use of pencil and watercolor also speaks to the more practical aspects of design and garment construction. It highlights the artist's attention to detail and her technical skill in translating a three-dimensional object onto a two-dimensional surface. Ultimately, this drawing emphasizes the value of both process and material in understanding the social and cultural significance of clothing and the ways it is made.