Wall Stencil 1935 - 1942

This wall stencil was made by Mildred E. Bent, using what looks like watercolour on paper. What strikes me is the simplicity and repetition, the handmade quality. It makes me think about process. You can see the texture of the paper coming through. It feels delicate, not overworked. Bent uses a very limited palette—terracotta oranges and greens with a pinkish-grey background. I love how the colour is thinned out almost into washes in places. Notice how the little birds are all facing in one direction, except for one. It's like a little act of rebellion, a reminder that art doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful. The artist allows for imperfections. It reminds me of the wallpaper designs by William Morris. But Bent's stencil has a more intimate, handmade feel. It's a gentle reminder that art is an ongoing conversation across time. It’s up to us to listen.