Pelican feeding 1980

Charles Blackman’s “Pelican Feeding” is made with graphite on paper. It’s a study in tone, line, and form. Think about the properties of graphite. A relatively soft material, its powdery consistency allows for blending, shading, and the creation of tonal gradations. Notice how Blackman utilizes these qualities to create a sense of depth and volume in the water and the bird's body. The blurred reflections and soft shadows suggest the movement of water. The velvety texture of the graphite creates a tangible sense of the pelican's feathers. The simplicity of the materials directs our attention to the artist's hand, and the marks left behind by the process of drawing. Blackman allows the qualities of the material to influence the overall aesthetic of the piece. This emphasizes the value of traditional skills and artistic expression.