Charles Burchfield, Jounals, November 19, 1947

Nov. 19 (Wed.)

a.m. Letter from Moe asking for an appraisal of Nora Lee Rohn + her project (a survey of art criticism past + present). Also an added remark: “I warn you I will ask you to serve on the jury again this year” –

A mild morning, with vague misty clouds in the sky – contrary to yesterday’s barren-ness I “see” pictures in every direction, full of significance. Such “awareness” in not indicative of a painting mood – it dissipates in all directions, but it is a glorious state of mind for enjoyment, about mid-morning. The sun came out clear, and I decided to work on odd jobs outdoors. It felt good to be “tinkering”.

I had barely got started on a framework to pack leaves around the front of the house where our water-pipes are exposed to cold, when Donald Vetter came out to see me (he had stopped at the house.) I know who he is but could not recall his name. We went in the studio awhile + I showed him some of my recent things. Then we went into the house. Bertha meanwhile had started lunch + we persuaded him to stay. He was on his way home + was intending to do the 750 miles non-stop – so wanted to get on his way. We enjoyed his visit.

p.m. Finished my job and fill it with leaves. A fine foreboding dark to the sky – and all objects had deep sepia black shadows under them. Balance of afternoon in studio studying pictures etc. The melancholy twilight of November glows in the windows.

Evening B + I play rummy –

Charles Burchfield, Journals, November 19, 1947