Economy Sample of Silk 1938

Ralph Atkinson made this ‘Economy Sample of Silk’ without stating when, or with what medium. Perhaps he considered it as a simple record of the fabric. Looking at this I can imagine the artist trying to capture the delicate weave and sheen, the way light plays on the silk's surface, and how the rose pattern emerges from the dark ground, shifting and emerging through the careful application of pigment. I can sympathise with Atkinson! The precision and detail required to render each petal, each leaf. There's a real sense of care and attention in this piece, you know? The contrast between the deep, saturated blacks and the vibrant reds and greens makes this piece so special. It is evocative of other images of textiles, patterns, and designs. They all talk to each other across time, inspiring creativity. Ultimately, painting offers a unique way of seeing and experiencing the world, and I, for one, find this piece delightful.