Promenade (Couple) 1921

Christian Rohlfs created this drawing, Promenade (Couple), using a humble wax crayon on paper. The immediacy of the medium allowed for a rapid capturing of form, the figures appearing almost as apparitions in soft, muted green. You can see how the wax crayon's texture influences the appearance, with the varying pressure of the artist's hand creating a lively surface of light and shadow. Rohlfs embraces the inherent qualities of the crayon, exploiting its ability to produce both delicate lines and broad, gestural strokes. The simplicity of the materials and process belies a sophisticated artistic sensibility. Rohlfs elevates the everyday into the realm of fine art, challenging traditional hierarchies and reminding us that creativity can be found in the most unassuming of places. Ultimately, understanding the material choices and the making process opens up new avenues for interpreting the artwork, blurring the boundaries between craft and fine art.