Study of a Group of Goats 

Editor: This is Sawrey Gilpin’s "Study of a Group of Goats," held in the Tate collection. It's a small drawing. The lines are delicate, but they capture these goats so well. What stands out to you? Curator: The quick, economical lines are interesting. I'm curious about the paper itself. What kind of paper was available to Gilpin, and how did that affect his drawing process? Were these studies for a larger commission or personal explorations of pastoral labor and land use? Editor: I never thought about the paper itself! So, it’s about the broader system of producing art? Curator: Exactly! The means of production, the social context of artistic labor... all shape what we see. Editor: That's a great perspective. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure. Considering the materials always adds another layer.