Shaker Rug 1935 - 1942

Editor: Here we have Charles Goodwin’s "Shaker Rug," dating from between 1935 and 1942, created with what appears to be watercolor and drawing techniques. I find the use of repetitive floral shapes comforting, but there is also an earthy, almost rugged feel, given the way the forms are rendered. What draws your eye in this piece? Curator: What strikes me immediately is the sophisticated manipulation of form within a seemingly simple structure. Consider the interplay between the central floral motif and its flanking counterparts. The negative space carved out by the black looping is visually so important here, echoing, rather than mimicking, the shape itself. The color is, let's note, relatively muted, however, it accentuates and energizes the pattern itself. How does the bordering, the rug’s edge itself, strike you? Editor: I see what you mean. The braid feels contained. It definitely frames the artwork and accentuates the contrast with the free-flowing floral forms, doesn’t it? Is that rugged feel I am getting coming from that contrast between rigid geometric pattern and fluid forms? Curator: Precisely. Now consider the visual texture created by Goodwin’s rendering. Note how each shape within the floral design, while following a set pattern, possesses a unique, almost handcrafted quality. This deliberate variation creates depth and a sense of visual interest, demanding closer inspection. And the medium helps to build texture too: drawing on watercolor. Editor: I had not considered that aspect of visual texture, the slight variation that still forms the pattern as a whole, but it definitely is there. The piece becomes much more dynamic after that point. I see it almost creating motion! Curator: It moves the rug away from simple design and pattern to an area where we can appreciate line, composition, color as creating rhythm in the eye of the viewer. And as viewers we bring our own experiences to find a shared visual vocabulary. Editor: Absolutely, this was really enlightening. Thank you for your unique, fresh outlook on Charles Goodwin’s drawing! Curator: My pleasure, reflecting on the work's interplay of structure, texture, and color is always rewarding.