Woman's head to the left 

Victor Müller made this study of a woman’s head using pencil on paper. The choice of material has a direct effect on the work. Graphite pencils allow artists to create subtle gradations of tone and fine lines, essential for capturing the delicate nuances of the face. The use of paper and pencil can be seen as a move towards accessibility, away from the preciousness associated with traditional art materials like oil paint and canvas. Drawing is a democratic medium, accessible to anyone with basic tools. The quick marks and sketches show a process of exploration and refinement, revealing Müller's creative process. These drawings gave artists the freedom to experiment with composition and form, before committing to a final piece. By embracing the immediacy and accessibility of drawing, Müller challenged the hierarchy of art forms, elevating the status of preparatory sketches. Appreciating the process and materials allows us to question conventional boundaries between art and craft.