DS 1958

This drawing, DS, by David Smith was made on a sheet of paper with pencil. Just imagine him, in 1958, feeling his way through line and shape. It's like a landscape of the mind, isn't it? You know, when I look at this, I think about all the times I’ve sat in my studio, wrestling with a composition, searching for that elusive balance. Smith is searching too, trying to resolve form with such simple means. The pencil lines create shapes that feel both abstract and familiar. Like they are about to become real, and then change their mind. Smith had a big influence on other artists, especially sculptors. It's like he’s having a conversation with painters like Picasso and Miro, but in his own language. The way one artist picks up where another leaves off is inspiring. I love the freedom in this drawing. It reminds me that art is about exploration, not answers.