Dimensions: image: 208 x 155 mm image: 306 x 270 mm
Copyright: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate
Curator: This is Alexander Cozens' "6. Table VI. Combination of the Features of the Haughty", now residing in the Tate Collections. It’s essentially a study of facial expression and form. Editor: Haughty, indeed! I see it in the sharp angle of her nose and the almost severe set of her jawline, even in this rather delicate sketch. Curator: Cozens was fascinated by the idea of creating landscapes and portraits from abstract blots and lines. He believed this method could unlock a new level of artistic expression. Editor: It's funny, isn't it? How a few lines can convey such a strong sense of personality. The ribbon in her hair softens the effect somewhat, hinting at a vulnerability beneath the surface. Curator: Perhaps Cozens was suggesting that even haughtiness is a construct, a carefully arranged composition of features and affectations. Editor: Leaving me to wonder what "features" I combine on any given day. Food for thought. Curator: Precisely. Art that makes you look inward.