Reredos-Mission San Juan Bautista 1938

Ethel Dougan created this watercolor depiction of the Reredos at Mission San Juan Bautista. The composition is dominated by a symmetrical, multi-tiered structure, featuring a series of arches and columns rendered in muted greens and earth tones, evoking a sense of solemnity. The artist uses line and color to create depth and detail, mimicking the intricate carvings and architectural elements of the original. The linear precision, combined with the soft color palette, speaks to a tension between representation and abstraction. This tension mirrors the broader cultural dialogue around the preservation and interpretation of historical sites. Dougan’s work offers a lens through which we can consider how historical forms are translated and re-presented. It invites us to think about how architectural elements function as signs, carrying cultural and historical weight while also being subject to artistic interpretation.