Three poplars and mulberry trees 1974

Sattar Bahlulzade made this black ink drawing of three poplars and mulberry trees, rendered with rapid strokes across a small rectangular field. Ink is a humble material, available to nearly everyone. Yet, consider the labor and intensity required to create a drawing so full of visual incident. The artist likely dipped a fine brush or pen into the ink, and then carefully constructed a scene where the trees sway in the wind. Look closely, and you will notice how the dense areas of ink create depth, making the trees appear almost sculptural. The stark contrast between the black ink and the white of the paper creates a striking visual effect. Bahlulzade was a master of the spontaneous sketch, a technique that aligns with the broader history of draftsmanship, stretching back centuries. He also embraced the vernacular, finding beauty in the everyday landscape around him. This unpretentious approach reminds us that powerful art need not rely on expensive materials or complicated techniques. Instead, it is about imbuing humble means with profound vision.