#41433 Coles Phillips

The composition centers around a stylized depiction of an incandescent light bulb, rendered in warm yellow and orange hues. The bulb is positioned within a circular frame, which itself is set against a stark black background. This contrast immediately draws the viewers attention to the central motif.
Within the circle, a complex pattern unfolds. A deep blue serves as the primary color for this area, overlaid with an intricate design of stylized floral elements and looping lines. The floral motifs are rendered in shades of red and pink, adding visual interest and a touch of decorative flair that softens the otherwise utilitarian nature of the piece. These patterns suggest a sense of tradition or established order, perhaps hinting at the historical reliance on coal as a primary energy source.
The light bulb itself is not depicted realistically; rather, it’s presented in a simplified, almost symbolic form. A vertical line, composed of dotted segments, extends downwards from the base of the bulb, connecting it visually to the text block below. This line acts as a direct conduit between the visual element and the message being conveyed.
The accompanying text is straightforward and didactic: LIGHT CONSUMES COAL / SAVE LIGHT - SAVE COAL. The typography is clean and legible, reinforcing the functional purpose of the piece – to communicate a clear message about energy conservation. A smaller inscription at the bottom identifies it as originating from the United States Fuel Administration, providing context for its creation and intended audience.
Subtly, the work engages with themes of resource management and societal responsibility. The juxtaposition of the decorative circular pattern with the functional light bulb suggests a tension between aesthetic values and practical needs. The message implies that seemingly innocuous actions – using light – have significant consequences for vital resources like coal. The overall effect is one of understated urgency, urging viewers to consider their consumption habits and contribute to a larger effort of conservation.