Panicle Mist 2018

Curator: We're looking at Soey Milk’s “Panicle Mist” from 2018, a graphite pencil drawing on paper. It strikes me immediately with its delicate melancholic air. What's your first impression? Editor: There is an undeniable fragility communicated through the ethereal quality of the lines, juxtaposed against what appears to be an intentional rawness to its process. The lack of complete shading emphasizes the drawing’s inherent materiality as graphite on paper, a process visible in every stroke. Curator: Indeed. The composition emphasizes a diagonal sweep, drawing the eye from the upper left down to the lower right where we see the artist’s seal. It structures our reading. What thoughts do you have about the artist's mark making? Editor: It suggests to me that the labor behind the art is equally important as what is portrayed. The details in the garment, versus the bareness of the cloak draped over her head. There’s almost a sense of the drawing becoming more substantial through the intricacies of its making; like threads slowly forming cloth. Curator: Interesting. Consider the draped form. The structural simplicity of this hood contrasts with the detailed patterns in the robe below. This tension almost cradles the face of the figure which is downcast and obscured. Do you think there is a symbolism intended? Editor: Perhaps. The cloak hides her but also emphasizes the craftsmanship involved. One is tempted to interpret the patterns on her robe. The layers of labor put into creating the dress. So is the labor shown or hidden? And whose? What social dynamic does it communicate? Curator: I see your point about the layered nature of the drawing mirroring layers of social structure. Editor: The artist clearly has something to say by selecting this approach. There is no right way to answer, but considering the artist’s decisions invites interpretation. Curator: By attending to the artist's material engagement and her intentional choices of structure and form, we perhaps find new means to engage with the artwork. Editor: Precisely. Considering materials can make art appreciation more relational to the people whose labor fills its story.