Cookie Cutter 1935 - 1942

Franklyn Syres' painting, Cookie Cutter, shows an interesting exploration of form, made with what looks like watercolor on paper. Syres uses subtle variations of gray and brown, giving it a metallic illusion. The texture here is key. Notice how he builds up layers of color to create depth and dimension? It almost feels like you could reach out and touch the cool metal. I’m drawn to the way Syres renders the curves and edges of the cookie cutter, giving it a tactile presence. Those little white dots punched into the metal add to this sense of depth, really pulling you in. This piece reminds me a little of some of Giorgio Morandi’s still life paintings; both artists share an interest in finding beauty in the mundane objects that surround us. The charm of this piece lies in its deceptive simplicity. It invites us to slow down, look closely, and discover the artfulness embedded in everyday objects.