Spur c. 1938

Gerald Transpota rendered this image of a spur with watercolor, ink, and graphite. Look closely, and you’ll notice how the material – likely iron or steel in the original object – is carefully shaded to give a sense of its weight and texture. The drawing's lines and colors work together to convey how the spur was likely forged, hammered, and tooled. These processes imbued the object with its cultural significance; spurs like these were essential tools for cowboys, enabling them to communicate with their horses through subtle pressure and cues. Consider also the labor involved in both making and using such a spur. It speaks to the skill of the blacksmith who crafted it, and to the expertise of the rider who depended on it. So, while this is simply a drawing, it serves as a reminder that all objects, whether art or tool, embody a rich tapestry of materials, making, and social context. By considering these aspects, we can move beyond traditional art history and appreciate the full meaning of this functional yet artful object.