Wrought Iron Fence c. 1936

Francis Law Durand drew this "Wrought Iron Fence" on paper, but we don't know when, exactly. What I love about this piece is its quiet dedication to something so seemingly mundane. Look at how Durand coaxes out the form with these hesitant lines, almost caressing the paper. The graphite has this beautiful, soft sheen, catching the light just so. It's like the fence itself is breathing, solid yet delicate. Notice the way the lines wobble ever so slightly, giving the metal a handmade feel. The little heart shapes at the top are so sweet, aren’t they? Like a tough guy with a soft spot. It reminds me of some of Philip Guston's later works, where everyday objects take on this strange, melancholic beauty. Art isn't about perfection; it's about feeling and seeing the world in new ways.