Janie Ralston in a Kilt 1924

Rockwell Kent made this ink drawing of Janie Ralston in a Kilt sometime in the early 20th century. The drawing is spare, using just a few simple lines to evoke the subject. It’s all about mark-making here, how a line can suggest a form, a shadow, a whole personality. Look at the way Kent uses line weight to define the folds of the kilt. There’s a real sense of playfulness in the way he simplifies the tartan pattern, using it almost as an abstract element. Then there is the economy of means in the figure's face, just a few strokes to convey a sense of composure and dignity. The ink is transparent, the surface of the paper smooth. It makes me think of other illustrators like Aubrey Beardsley, who also used simple lines to create complex effects. This piece speaks to the idea of art as a conversation, across time and between artists. It reminds us that art doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.