Iron Scales c. 1937

Samuel Fineman made this drawing of iron scales on paper, and it’s all about the balance between precision and something more intuitive. Look at how he's mapped out the object. The color is minimal, almost monochromatic, emphasizing the texture of the metal. It feels like Fineman wants us to really see this tool, to understand its weight, and its function. Notice the hooks hanging down. They remind me of how Guston used to draw legs or shoes, dangling there. It's got a quiet, understated quality to it. There's a real sense of care in each line and curve. Fineman’s drawing reminds me of artists like Vija Celmins, who also find the extraordinary in the ordinary. Ultimately, it's a reminder that art isn't just about grand gestures, it’s about the intimate act of seeing.