Frenzied Effort 1925

"Frenzied Effort" (1925) is a black and white etching by American artist Peggy Bacon (1895-1987). This work depicts a life drawing class with a nude model, a scene that Bacon often used as a subject, as it provided a comedic and social commentary on the art world. The work captures the energetic atmosphere of the class, with students hunched over their sketchbooks, their faces focused intently. The figures are drawn with Bacon's characteristic sharp lines and exaggerated features, creating a sense of humor and satire. The work was likely part of Bacon's body of work exploring the lives of artists and intellectuals in New York City.