Dressing Wells 1961

Wayne Thiebaud made this work, Dressing Wells, by applying oil paint in thick strokes, a process-oriented approach that invites us to consider the very act of painting. The surface is built up with layers, creating a tactile quality that's almost edible – think cake frosting! The paint is opaque, concealing rather than revealing what lies beneath, which gives the work a sense of depth, like digging into the layers of memory. Look at the area where the red pigment meets the edge of the bowl. See how Thiebaud scrapes and blends the colors, creating a sense of movement and tension? This small detail speaks volumes about the artist’s engagement with his materials. In a way, this work is in conversation with other painters like Giorgio Morandi, who explored similar themes of still life and domestic objects. The difference being, that Thiebaud's vision is all about color and materiality. Ultimately, it’s up to each of us to bring our own experiences and perspectives to the table, allowing the artwork to resonate in ways that are both personal and profound.