Landscape 1963

John Henry Rock's 'Landscape' is made with traditional art materials – charcoal and ink on paper. Look closely, and you’ll see Rock's technique is rooted in the act of drawing. The charcoal and ink aren't just applied; they're actively worked into the surface. The smudging, scratching, and layering of media creates a depth that's both physical and emotional. The monochromatic palette, punctuated by small dabs of blue and yellow, adds to the drama. But the work’s real power is in its immediacy. You can almost see the artist's hand moving across the page. It reminds us that art is not just about the finished product, but also about the labor and skill that goes into its making. By focusing on the process and materiality of Rock’s artwork, we can appreciate not just what it depicts, but how it was brought into being.