The Searcher 1928

"The Searcher", by George Nelson, probably from the mid-20th century, is made with a delicate touch that seems to emerge from close looking. The image is rendered in black and white with great attention to creating texture through mark making. The physical quality of the image is key. The texture of the land, sky, and even the rolling form are built from layers and clusters of tiny marks. Notice how the rendering of the figure is softer, which sets the character apart from the unforgiving terrain. Consider the way that the tone and texture of the land compares to the smooth, flat rendering of the reverse side of the giant form. The artist's hand, through these subtle, controlled marks, shapes not just what we see, but how we feel. Nelson's image, with its precision and detail, reminds me of Piranesi's architectural prints. Both use a very linear approach to create a world you can almost step into. And like Piranesi, Nelson invites you to consider how the artist can make their mark.