Nicol's Farm 1925

Paul Drury made this etching, Nicol's Farm, using lines to build up the image and create a rich, dark surface. Look closely, and you'll see how much work goes into creating all those tiny marks. It's like a dance of intention and chance. There's something incredibly tactile about this print. The dense network of etched lines makes the surface almost velvety. You can almost feel the weight of the old timbers and the dampness of the water. Notice the reflections in the water – the way the lines are so carefully placed to mimic the shimmering light. The density of the marks also creates a sense of depth. See how the foreground is so much more detailed and darker than the background. It really pulls you into the scene. Think about how artists like Samuel Palmer were also drawn to similar scenes. There's a connection in the way they both create a sense of atmosphere, even though their styles are different. Art is always a conversation, right?