Sketch of a Man, Amsterdam Possibly 1886

Editor: This is Joseph Smith's "Sketch of a Man, Amsterdam." It's a watercolor and graphite work. The first thing that struck me was its simplicity, almost unfinished quality. What do you see in the composition that stands out to you? Curator: Note how the composition uses the barest minimum of strokes. The artist uses this parsimony to focus our attention on the delicate balance between line and wash. Editor: So, the unfinished quality becomes a strength. Curator: Precisely. The negative space around the figure is as crucial as the figure itself. The eye is free to wander, completing the image. Editor: I hadn't considered the importance of the blank space. Curator: That is the key to grasping the genius of this work. Editor: I'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks!