A Woman Standing 

Curator: This delicate pencil sketch, "A Woman Standing," is by John Varley, born in 1778. The artwork is held in the Tate Collections, measuring about 12 by 19 centimeters. Editor: There's such a vulnerability to her; the faint lines almost make her fade into the paper itself. Curator: Varley's line work captures the essence of form. Look at the draping of her clothing; it's incredibly economical yet descriptive. Editor: It feels like a fleeting glimpse. Makes you wonder what she's thinking, what her story is... or maybe what story Varley imagined for her. Curator: The lack of background focuses our attention squarely on her figure, her presence. It's about form and suggestion more than portraiture, I think. Editor: Right, you feel the raw energy of the artist’s hand, and the potential of the subject. Curator: Exactly. It reminds us of the beauty in simplicity. Editor: A quiet piece, but one that sticks with you.