Plattegrond van tempel van Segesta 1778

Louis Mayer made this pencil drawing, "Plan of the temple of Segesta," using graphite on paper. The medium and processes used here are traditional. Note the softness of the pencil marks; the artist creates a volumetric image of this ancient temple using line work and light shading. Consider this artwork and the ancient temple itself as products of a world that predates industrialization, mass production, and consumption. The act of drawing with graphite creates a direct connection between the artist’s hand and the surface of the paper; the artist’s labor is evident in the textured quality of the marks. It is so different than mass production. This drawing prompts us to think about the materials used in the creation of the temple itself, the processes of quarrying and carving stone, and the immense amount of human labor involved in the production of these monumental works. It invites us to consider the full meaning of this ancient temple, its social and cultural significance, and the vast amount of time and energy required to build.