Untitled 1973

William Christenberry made this mixed media drawing on paper, sometime during his lifetime. The visible layering and blending of waxy pigment, in addition to watercolor washes and graphite lines, speaks to a process of building up and refining. It's important to consider the inherent qualities of these materials. Pigments allow for an immediate and expressive application of color, while graphite provides structure and depth. We can imagine the artist's hand moving across the surface, adding details and modifying shapes. The artist’s mark-making is important here. This work is as much about materiality as it is about process. It reflects a tradition of creative practices which elevates drawing to the status of fine art, while engaging other histories of design and aesthetics. This piece challenges traditional distinctions between 'high art' and 'craft,' inviting us to appreciate the skillful manipulation of simple materials.