Seated Woman in Heels 

Mark Rothko, later renowned for his abstract expressionist paintings, made this drawing with graphite on paper. Graphite, derived from mined mineral deposits, is the backbone of countless preliminary sketches. Here, Rothko uses its inherent softness to trace the lines of a seated woman. The thin application, evident in the delicate marks, offers us a glimpse into the artist's process. It reveals the physical act of creation, the artist's hand moving across the page in an attempt to capture the essence of his subject. Rothko is not only representing the figure, but also engaging in a dialogue with the material itself. Considering the ready availability of graphite and paper, this choice can be linked to broader issues of labor and accessibility. Drawing becomes a democratic medium. A simple act of observation, recorded with modest means, can lead to profound artistic expression. It bridges the gap between the everyday and the extraordinary. The image, even in its incompleteness, prompts us to appreciate the work, skill and material conditions that underpin all forms of artistic expression.