Diana and Actaeon 1889

Otto Scholderer made this drawing of Diana and Actaeon at an unknown date using graphite on paper. The artist used graphite, a relatively inexpensive material that makes a mark very easily, to create this piece. The application of the graphite appears spontaneous, with areas of dense hatching to build form and depth in the landscape, and create contrasts of light and shadow. Although this looks like a quick sketch, the artist has used the qualities of the material itself to evoke texture and movement within the scene. The choice of graphite allows for both expressive freedom and precision in capturing the drama of the mythological narrative. Ultimately, the material and processes used by Scholderer imbue the artwork with a sense of immediacy, drawing viewers into the heart of the narrative. This underscores the importance of considering materials, making, and context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.