Wooden Figure 1935 - 1942

This drawing of a wooden figure was made by Bernard Westmacott sometime between 1855 and 1995, no exact date is given, using graphite on paper. It's a detailed and careful study, right? I love the way Westmacott has taken his time to define the figure's form and clothing with such precision, and the muted tones of gray that he's chosen. Up close, you can really see the hand of the artist at work. The graphite marks are soft and blended, creating a sense of depth and volume, and the lines are delicate, almost tentative, suggesting a process of discovery as Westmacott worked. See the details on the figure's coat and hat and the subtle shadows that define the folds of the fabric, each mark adding to the overall effect of realism and texture. It reminds me a little of the work of Charles Sheeler, with its focus on precision and the beauty of everyday objects. Ultimately, this drawing is about the process of seeing and representing the world around us, of taking the time to really look at something and to translate that observation into art. It invites us to slow down and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the simplest things.