Three Notch Survey Mark c. 1938

Editor: This is Manuel G. Runyan's "Three Notch Survey Mark," dating from around 1938. It's a charcoal drawing on paper, depicting two pieces of wood. I'm immediately struck by how realistically Runyan has rendered the texture and form of the wood. What aspects of its composition do you find most compelling? Curator: The charm of this work lies precisely in Runyan's detailed approach to form and his keen eye for texture, evidenced by his use of charcoal on paper. Note how the parallel positioning of these objects against the plain, pale ground activates our appreciation for the nuances of each section. The medium underscores the form. How else could this idea be conveyed? Editor: Well, maybe with a sculpture? But I suppose the deliberate nature of a drawing emphasizes Runyan's engagement. Curator: Exactly. Note the grain and knotholes within the charcoal. Runyan’s rendering creates the illusion of dimensionality. Editor: I see what you mean; the close values and delicate gradations give them a sculptural quality, despite being on a flat surface. It's almost trompe l'oeil. Curator: Runyan’s attention to material and arrangement focuses attention not on representation, but the pure essence of these organic structures and allows them to fill and determine the shape of this artwork. I find myself looking at realism through a different perspective now. Editor: Absolutely, Runyan uses a familiar object to shift one's way of looking at line, form, tone, and shape.