A Fallen Tree Trunk, with a Seated Monk 

Editor: So, this is Richard Wilson's "A Fallen Tree Trunk, with a Seated Monk." It's a graphite drawing, and I find the contrast between the massive tree and the tiny monk really striking. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I'm interested in the materials, the graphite itself, and the paper. Consider how the availability and cost of these materials shaped artistic production in Wilson’s time. How did this impact the distribution and reception of his work? Editor: That’s a good point. So it's not just about aesthetics, but the means of creating art that matters too. Curator: Exactly! The accessibility of materials influences artistic expression. Think about who had access to these materials and the skills to use them. Editor: Right, it tells a story about society, not just about the scene. Curator: Precisely.