Rudolf Hess 1945

This line drawing of Rudolf Hess was made by Kukryniksy at an unknown date with a thin, dark line on what appears to be paper. It’s amazing how few lines can evoke a likeness. The drawing is all process; it’s clear that it was done rapidly, maybe even on the spot. The way the lines are used to describe the shape of Hess’s face, with its drooping nose and downcast eyes, really conveys a sense of sadness or resignation. See how the hatching marks on the hair are so direct, and the weight of the coat is expressed with a single line, thick to thin, that tapers to the bottom. The hand is so expressive, too. It reminds me of a cross between George Grosz and Philip Guston, in its combination of caricature and melancholy. It’s a reminder that art is not just about representation, but also about feeling, interpretation, and the ongoing conversation between artists.