Landscape (from McGuire Scrapbook) 1796 - 1886

Editor: So, this is Asher Brown Durand's "Landscape (from McGuire Scrapbook)," dating from 1796 to 1886, done in graphite on paper. It's interesting – almost ethereal in its depiction of the tree. What do you make of the materiality here? Curator: Notice how the graphite allows for a certain democratization of landscape depiction. Prior to mass-produced materials, landscape art was often reserved for the elite, commissioned in oils. Here, the accessibility of graphite allows Durand to engage with the natural world directly and intimately in *plein air*. This makes the process, the act of *making*, central to its meaning, democratizing both the subject and creation of art. Editor: That's a great point! So, the very choice of graphite impacts how we interpret the artwork? Curator: Precisely. Consider the societal context. As industrialization transformed the landscape, artists like Durand turned to nature, seeking solace and authenticity. Graphite, easily portable and affordable, became a vital tool in documenting and appreciating the disappearing natural world. His practice highlights the relationship between nature, material, and emerging industrial forces, yes? It reflects a growing awareness of nature as both subject and resource. What implications might that have for today's consumers? Editor: It highlights the raw process of translating observations. Thinking about the socio-economic aspect too really shifts the emphasis of the artwork. Thanks, this was eye-opening. Curator: My pleasure! Looking at the art-making process and materiality brings to light many implications regarding the accessibility and meaning of art.