Dillon Season Index2 sj Diane Dillon

The presented collection comprises thirty small-scale artworks arranged in a grid format, accompanied by textual information identifying them as illustrations from a work titled From To Every Thing There Is A Season, attributed to Leo and Diane Dillon and drawing upon the biblical text of Ecclesiastes. Each individual artwork is framed within a square border, contributing to a sense of order and uniformity across the series.
The visual style employed is characterized by flattened perspective, simplified forms, and a limited palette dominated by warm earth tones – ochres, siennas, burnt umbers – with occasional accents of cooler blues and greens. Figures are rendered in stylized fashion, often with elongated limbs and expressive gestures. The compositions frequently depict scenes of human activity within specific cultural contexts, as indicated by the accompanying labels: Ethiopia, Thailand, China, Russia, Australia, the Far North, the Middle East, and Earth.
A recurring motif is that of gatherings or communal activities. In several instances, individuals are shown engaged in music-making, dancing, or ceremonial practices. The depiction of Ethiopia features figures adorned with traditional garments and musical instruments. Similarly, Thailand is represented by scenes of dancers and musicians. China appears to be portrayed through a gathering around a table, possibly depicting a meal or celebration. Russia’s illustrations show people in what appear to be folk costumes, engaged in festive activities. Australias depictions include stylized figures interacting with native flora and fauna.
The inclusion of Earth as a separate artwork is particularly noteworthy. It presents a satellite view of the planet, suggesting a broader perspective on the cyclical nature of time and seasons that underpins the work’s thematic concerns. The Far North illustrations show people in what appears to be traditional clothing interacting with each other.
The subtexts embedded within this collection seem to revolve around themes of cultural diversity, human connection, and the passage of time. By associating these visual representations with specific geographical locations and referencing Ecclesiastes – a book exploring mortality and the cyclical nature of existence – the artists invite viewers to contemplate the shared experiences that bind humanity across cultures and generations. The consistent stylistic approach, despite the varied subject matter, reinforces a sense of universality, suggesting that regardless of location or cultural background, humans are united by their participation in the rhythms of life and the seasons.

The deliberate use of small scale and uniform framing contributes to an overall effect of quiet contemplation, encouraging close observation and reflection on the individual narratives contained within each artwork.