Red Plush Morris Chair c. 1937

Florence Truelson made this watercolor and graphite drawing of a plush red Morris Chair, and what gets me right away is how she renders the way light settles on the cushions. I imagine Truelson carefully observing the chair, maybe in a quiet room, really trying to get a sense of its form and texture. You can see how the graphite outlines give a sense of depth, while the watercolor brings a soft, inviting quality to the red plush and golden detailing. I like how the drawing is both precise in its details, like the casters and the footrest, and also a little dreamy. It reminds me that artists are always having a conversation, looking at the world, looking at each other's work, and finding new ways to see and express what they feel. It makes you wonder what inspired Truelson, and who might be inspired by her in turn.