Volunteer Fireman's Cap 1938

Alexander Anderson made this Volunteer Fireman's Cap, and the way he's rendered it in watercolor is so captivating. There’s a real tenderness in how he captures the material of the hat, almost like he’s gently exploring it. I love how the colors aren't overly saturated but instead, the subtle gradients create depth, hinting at the textures, like the velvet band, woven trim, and the leather peak. The rendering feels so true and authentic, and even the way the cap is softly lit. Look closely at the delicate lines defining the edges of the hat, or the muted tones of the crown, which all add to the hat’s overall presence. Anderson's almost scientific approach to depicting the objects around him reminds me of the work of Charles Demuth. But instead of flat shapes, Anderson creates something softer, more personal. It's a reminder that art is always a conversation, an ongoing dialogue with the world and each other.