Wooden Figure

Art Historical Context

Welcome to the National Gallery of Art showcase of American design heritage! "Wooden Figure," a meticulous graphite drawing on paperboard by Bernard Westott, dates from the pivotal years of 1935–1942. Created as part of the Index of American Design—a groundbreaking WPA Federal Art Project initiative during the Great Depression—this 29 x 22.8 cm work exemplifies the era's effort to document and celebrate everyday American folk art and craftsmanship. Westmacott's rendering captures the essence of a wooden figure with precise graphite lines and subtle shading, highlighting the object's tactile qualities and artisanal details on sturdy paperboard. This medium allowed for the fine control needed to faithfully reproduce textures, forms, and historical nuances, preserving cultural artifacts that might otherwise fade from view. As a cornerstone of the Index, which produced thousands of such studies, this piece underscores the cultural importance of folk traditions in shaping American identity. It invites us to appreciate the anonymous makers behind these humble yet evocative carvings, bridging past ingenuity with modern appreciation. A true gem for design enthusiasts!