Untitled 1995

Curator: The drawing before us, simply titled "Untitled," was created by Michael Brennan in 1995, using graphite. The first thing that grabs me are the series of parallel vertical lines. What’s your initial response? Editor: I'm immediately struck by the muted palette; the overall mood is so quiet. And while abstract, there's also something architectural about the composition to my eye, especially with the horizontal block at the bottom that could be perceived as a foundation. Curator: Yes, it does suggest structure. Let's delve deeper into Brennan's method. The artist deploys line in a most methodical, rigorous way, exploring the visual phenomena of repetitive marks, yet, what this methodology tries to uncover? Is it possible for repetition to be unique in the same mode that every manufactured thing is unique? Editor: An important tension there: seriality versus the inherent flaws or variations in even machine-made objects. The repetitive, almost meditative nature reminds me of certain minimalist practices and also alludes to ideas surrounding labour, both manual and perhaps also digital. This comes to my mind due to how, despite being hand made, the whole has a digital-ish or mechanical-ish aspect. Curator: Exactly, this hand-made with digital feeling adds a conceptual dimension that echoes broader discourses about technological advancement in society at the end of the twentieth century, and their interplay with organic materials like graphite. But focusing solely on the materials: Do you think that by selecting such materials, the author enhances his investigation? Editor: Definitely. Graphite provides a spectrum of greys which facilitates tonal gradations that capture how even in regimented patterns, variation and visual richness exist. By using the materiality, Brennan adds an essential humanist component. Curator: I think it is very clever from the artist not to try and hide these gradations, but to welcome these subtle inconsistencies. By drawing them he is exposing his way to thinking. This approach could have a reading in today's discussions around AI and technology. The artwork encourages a sustained visual experience and prompts us to reflect on the very essence of perception. Editor: Precisely. I walk away seeing how the artist used a fairly austere technique, but at the same time a very thoughtful selection of tools and construction resulted in a deep visual conversation. Curator: Yes, by emphasizing those elements of imperfection or vulnerability, a deeply humane, if subtly so, statement is made.