Detail, Painted Decoration on Sanctuary Wall c. 1939

This painted decoration on a sanctuary wall was made by Edward Jewett sometime around the turn of the 20th century, using watercolor. There's something so delicate about the way Jewett handles the watercolor, it's almost like he's breathing life into these architectural details. I mean, look at the vase – it's not just sitting there; it's got this gentle curve, a subtle gleam that makes you want to reach out and touch it. The watery consistency of the paint allows the white of the paper to shine through. In areas like the green panel, the paint application is so thin and translucent that it's barely there, giving the impression of light and air. The brushstrokes are soft and controlled. I’m reminded a little of the architectural studies of Charles Demuth. But where Demuth goes all hard-edged and jazzy, Jewett stays soft and serene. It’s a reminder that art is always in conversation, and every artist brings their own voice to the table. There are no definitive answers, just different ways of seeing.