Two Studies of a Figure Holding a Basket [verso] 

Editor: Here we have John Varley's "Two Studies of a Figure Holding a Basket," a pencil drawing of indeterminate date. The figures seem burdened, though it's difficult to discern much detail. What stories do you think this piece might be telling? Curator: This drawing sparks several thoughts. First, let's consider the social position of figures depicted from the back, obscuring identity and suggesting a sense of detachment, anonymity, and possibly disempowerment. We can also think about the visual trope of the worker. What kind of labor might they be performing? And what is the basket's symbolic weight, literally and figuratively? Is it a symbol of the character carrying the burden? Editor: The lack of identifying details makes them feel representative of a larger group, not individuals. The burden and the basket are, quite frankly, universal, in the sense that there are burdens people carry around everywhere. Curator: Precisely. Varley, situating these figures in what reads like a pastoral, landscape setting. How might the social realities of rural life at the time intersect with the more generalized representation of labour and the individual experience of carrying these metaphorical and sometimes actual loads. Are these workers tied to their land and class? Is Varley, with this drawing, alluding to issues of economic justice? Editor: I didn't initially connect the landscape to that social aspect. So, he might be pointing out their low status with these stylistic and setting choices? Curator: It’s possible. Varley’s visual language invites us to think about labor, class, identity and history. What I get from this work is an almost timeless depiction of toiling. What is it like to keep working, as a historical continuity? Editor: Thank you, it definitely helped to have the historical context clarified. I'll remember to consider all the elements. Curator: It’s a pleasure. Hopefully our brief talk inspired you to keep these kinds of intersections at the forefront as you consider artwork moving forward.