Baby's Cap c. 1937

Sylvia Dezon made this baby’s cap drawing on paper, but we don't know exactly when. What strikes me is the tonal range achieved with what looks like a very limited palette. It's so restrained. You can almost feel the texture of the cloth through the soft gradations of color. The artist has carefully rendered the delicate lace and ribbons with such precision. The surface is smooth, almost matte, which enhances the quiet, contemplative mood of the piece. Look at the way the lines fade in and out around the edges of the ribbons, how those lines create depth and volume. Dezon’s drawing reminds me of the work of Agnes Martin, in its quiet and subtle exploration of line, tone, and form. Both artists invite us to slow down and to really see the world around us, and in doing so find new beauty in the everyday.