The Gray Coast 1944

Stow Wengenroth made this lithograph, called 'The Gray Coast', using stone and crayon. There's a real sense of process here, you can see the artist feeling their way into the subject, discovering the scene through mark making. The tonal range is so subtle, capturing the craggy textures of the rocks and the churning sea. I love the way Wengenroth coaxes the light from the grey stone, creating a palpable atmosphere. Look closely at the lower left, where the lines of the rock face seem to converge, almost vibrating with energy. It's like a little abstract painting hidden within the landscape. Wengenroth reminds me of someone like Gerhard Richter, in his grey paintings, but with a representational twist. Both artists share a fascination with texture and the way light can transform a surface. Art's like one big conversation, isn't it? Each artist chipping in, adding their own perspective.