Gods of Greece c. 1859

Arnold Böcklin’s “Gods of Greece,” is a drawing on paper rendered in reddish-brown chalk and white heightening. The chalk is key, isn’t it? Think of it as ground stone, mineral transformed into medium. As such, it links Böcklin to a long lineage of artists committed to drawing as a primary means of expression. The slight tooth of the paper grabs the chalk, allowing for a range of marks, from soft shading to sharp, decisive lines. Look at how the artist builds up the forms, how the very dustiness of the material creates atmosphere. It’s a quick method, but also one demanding great skill. Böcklin is able to suggest volume and depth with remarkable economy. The drawing is not incidental. For Böcklin, it was central to his artistic project. Appreciating the vital relationship between material, process, and artist allows us to fully understand this drawing.