Self-Portrait; verso: View from the Artist's Studio in Stockholm c. 20th century

Curator: This is a self-portrait by Axel Hallgren. It’s a striking ink drawing, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first thought? It's raw, almost like a glimpse behind the curtain of the artist's soul. The bold strokes create a sense of immediacy. Curator: Yes, the technique conveys a certain urgency. It's fascinating how the artist chose to depict himself – focused, perhaps a bit severe, very much in control of his craft. Self-portraits during this period were increasingly opportunities for artists to define their role in society. Editor: Do you think that by showing himself at work he's trying to assert his value, perhaps even his "genius" in a rapidly changing world? The tools of his trade become symbols themselves. Curator: It's a very interesting point. Either way, Hallgren is giving us insight into how artists saw their place in society. Editor: I'm left pondering not just what he looked like, but who he felt he needed to be. Curator: And how images like this helped craft public perceptions of artists. Editor: A powerful thing to consider, really.