Seascape with Waves Breaking off Rocks (from Sketchbook VII) 1886

William Trost Richards made this seascape, with waves breaking off rocks, using graphite on paper. Look closely, and you’ll notice the marks build up to create a sense of light and atmosphere. Richards was fascinated by the sea, and often sketched outdoors. Graphite allowed for quick, on-the-spot studies, capturing fleeting moments of nature's power. The texture of the paper itself adds to the drawing's effect, as the graphite catches on the surface, creating subtle variations in tone. Before photography, artists like Richards played a crucial role in documenting the world around them. The act of drawing, with its careful observation and skillful rendering, elevates this simple sketch to a work of art. The labor, patience, and skill required to create such a detailed image remind us of the value of handmade processes in a rapidly industrializing world. It is a reminder that even a simple drawing can capture the sublime power of nature.