Design for a Frieze. An Antique Head, Oak Sprays and Goats 

Editor: Here we have Thomas Stothard's "Design for a Frieze. An Antique Head, Oak Sprays and Goats." It's giving me a classical, almost pastoral vibe. What stands out to you? Curator: The materiality of the drawing itself speaks volumes. Stothard, instead of presenting a finished, polished piece, shows us the raw labor, the process of design. What kind of labor does this reveal? Editor: It looks like it was a design for production? Like the frieze was meant to be made from stone? Curator: Exactly! Think about the social context. Was this for a private patron or public consumption? The materials chosen would reflect the intended audience and purpose. Editor: That makes sense. I never thought about the drawing as a record of labor. Curator: Considering the materials illuminates the consumption and the social implications of art production itself.