Family

KITCHEN TABLE

This drawing is most likely a self-portrait of Castle in the kitchen, which was a central gathering place for the Castle family.

MILK SEPARATOR

In front of the shed, a milk separator is next to a cup on the ground. Of all the chores, Castle chose to operate the milk separator.

FIGURES

The two smaller figures and the figure at the right often appear in Castle’s drawings. Note the coats laid out on the floor.

KIDS

Castle’s art practice was private, and despite his need for solitude, the family’s children often tried to catch a glimpse of the artist at work.

CHRISTMAS

The string at the top of this drawing is an essential feature of this Christmas-themed piece. Castle often displayed his artwork in the family home and in abandoned outbuildings around the property.

CASTLE WITH GREAT NIECE AND NEPHEW

Castle was an integral and valued family member despite his limited communication ability. His great-niece Cathy Wade Morris recalls the artist’s attention to body language. She said that he “wanted to look you right square in the eye, and he would notice everything about . . . how you were acting toward him.”