Shop Figure c. 1937

Frank Gray made this drawing of a ‘Shop Figure’ at some point in his career, we're not sure exactly when. The drawing gives you a good idea of the original wooden sculpture's form and shape. It’s not about detail, it’s more about the volume of the whole thing. The rendering of the figure is built up with lots of tiny strokes; you can see the direction of the brush, this makes it feel lively, like it’s being built up in front of us, almost as if it’s a process of carving and construction rather than just a surface description. The tones are muted, earthy. But then, bam! Those rose-colored shoes and beads really pop. It’s like Gray’s saying, ‘Here’s something solid, and here’s a little bit of magic.’ I especially love the way the folds of her clothing are described. The light hits them just so, giving her a sense of presence. I am reminded of the work of Elie Nadelman - the way he reduced classical forms to something modern, almost cartoonish. Both artists have a way of making something familiar feel brand new. Art is a process of ongoing exchange, and each artwork is just one step in a long conversation.