St Hans Paa Lauvlia 

Theodor Severin Kittelsen created this drawing of St Hans Paa Lauvlia, using graphite on paper. It's a traditional medium, yes, but one that allowed him tremendous subtlety. Look closely and you will see how the graphite is used to create an immersive scene. Notice how the material's inherent qualities of texture, weight, and form contribute to the artwork's atmospheric depth. The softness of the graphite allows Kittelsen to capture the tranquility of the Nordic landscape, with its dense forests and serene waters. Kittelsen employed traditional drawing techniques, engaging with a tradition that emphasizes observation and skill. But there's also a social context here. Consider the labor involved in producing the paper and graphite, and the access Kittelsen himself had to these materials. By understanding the materials, making, and context of this artwork, we can appreciate its full meaning, challenging any distinctions between fine art and craft.