Revery (WPA)

Leah Balsham

This lithograph was published by Works Progress Administration, Federal Art Project., Illinois.

A woman sits at a table with a look of resignation or contemplation, a vase full of dahlias beside her. The floral arrangement is so large it appears as though it is another figure seated at the table; between this and her expression, a touch of humor is lent to the scene. The texture of the litho crayon is informed by Balsham’s extensive experience with pottery and ceramic painting, and the paintbrush-like strokes employ a softness to the composition, creating a glow to the woman’s face and dress as well as the formidable bouquet in the sifting light.