Two Head Studies in Profile 1855 - 1865

Here you can see two head studies in profile, made by Sir John Everett Millais using graphite on paper. The linear quality of the drawing reveals much about the artist's process. Note the directness of the lines, the way the graphite renders the likeness, and the subtle gradations of tone. It is evident that the paper support is relatively unadorned. The whiteness contrasts with the graphite lines, creating an immediate visual tension. This drawing shows the artist’s hand and his process of refinement and the marks capture the act of observing and recording. Millais was a highly successful artist. Drawing was a fundamental skill for painters of his generation, a means of understanding form and composition. This work reflects a moment of artistic practice where the process itself becomes visible. The artist has laid bare the labor involved in the creation of this artwork. Appreciating this blend of intention and circumstance allows us to move beyond conventional art history and engage with broader creative practices.