Plate 35: St. Joseph: From Portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico 1934 - 1942

This image, Plate 35: St. Joseph, from the Portfolio "Spanish Colonial Designs of New Mexico," is an anonymous work of art with an unknown date. The design features simple lines and a limited color palette. The artist seems to be prioritizing flat planes of color, avoiding any kind of realistic shading. Looking closely, you'll notice the texture, and the slightly unsteady, hand-painted lines. The paint isn't trying to hide itself. It's there, unapologetically flat and opaque. The background, a vibrant aqua, features an almost wallpaper-like motif of floral and foliage designs in deep red. It's charming, in a wonky kind of way, suggesting a world both reverent and handmade. I am reminded of Marsden Hartley and his folk-inspired paintings. This artist, like Hartley, embraces imperfection, which feels so refreshing. This piece reminds us that art isn't about perfection, but about the ongoing conversation between tradition and innovation, skill and intuition.