Revery (WPA)

Leah Trust 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 with a vase full of dahlias beside her, so large it appears as though it is another figure seated at the table. The texture of the litho crayon is informed by Balsham’s extensive experience with pottery and ceramic painting, and the almost 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.