Sketches of School Boys n.d.

Editor: This is an undated drawing called "Sketches of School Boys," by an anonymous artist, housed here at the Art Institute of Chicago. It seems to be done with pen, ink, and chalk on paper. I’m struck by the immediacy of it, like a captured moment. What do you make of this work? Curator: Well, for me, the materiality is key. Notice the various papers pieced together. It suggests a frugal practice, a making-do with what's available. And think about the labour involved in creating these sketches, perhaps quickly, capturing the likenesses in real time, maybe during work or studies. Do you see evidence of skill and training? Editor: Yes, you can tell they knew what they were doing. The lines are confident, not hesitant, capturing the subjects’ posture in a minimalist style. I suppose that suggests at least a basic education, but also, I feel it is a talent. What else stands out to you? Curator: Consider how drawing historically bridged the gap between craft and fine art. Was this sketch meant as a study for a larger, more "important" work? Or was the process of observing and recording enough in itself? The artist also decided what moments were worthy of capture – bored students are a symbol of the growing educational system as it commodifies skill and knowledge. The images also seem cropped to suggest a certain level of access, either forbidden or required of the artist to render this piece. What would it mean if this was just someone taking a moment during their laborious job, sketching away. It almost begs the question if the subjects are complicit in this process? Editor: I never considered how those aspects intertwine here! This really prompts me to think differently about the materials involved, especially regarding intent, labour, and also class. Curator: Exactly! By focusing on those tangible elements, we can understand more about its social and historical meaning, but the drawing techniques adds another layer for our inquiry and perhaps opens us up to asking further question about labor or social status. Editor: I appreciate how your perspective brings attention to both the physical reality and conceptual underpinnings! Thanks!