Portrait of the Artist’s Wife 1895

Pekka Halonen drew this sketch of his wife, Siiti, in 1895, using graphite on paper. Halonen masterfully employs the dry medium to capture light and shadow, defining the contours of Siiti's face and dress with a delicate touch. The slight variations in pressure applied to the graphite reveal the artist's skill in modeling form and conveying depth through subtle tonal gradations. The visible lines of the sketch highlight the artist's process, showing how he gradually built up the image through careful observation and refinement. The choice of graphite—a readily available, relatively inexpensive material—speaks to the artist’s approach of portraying his subject with an understated elegance, devoid of grandiosity. This intimate portrayal reflects a desire to capture the essence of his sitter with simple and direct means. Halonen's drawing reminds us that even the simplest materials, when wielded by a skilled hand, can yield profound and moving works of art. This challenges traditional distinctions between 'high' and 'low' art by highlighting the intrinsic value of craft and artistic vision.