Tragic Figure 1985

Editor: We are looking at "Tragic Figure", a graphite drawing from 1985 by Arthur Bowen Davies. There's an interesting texture in the drawing; it appears almost granulated. How might this texture inform the work? Curator: I'm drawn to how the granular nature of graphite, a relatively common material, is deployed to depict the nude figure. We might ask, what is the socio-economic context of making a "tragic figure" out of such commonplace materials? Does the chosen medium downplay or amplify the tragic element, or even democratize the artwork's reception by being accessible? Editor: That’s interesting. I hadn't thought about the implications of using graphite in that way. Do you think that his choice of drawing instead of painting reflects something similar? Curator: Exactly! The process of drawing, layering graphite to achieve this shadowy, almost dreamlike effect, feels deliberate. One might argue that this labour, made visible through the granular surface, adds a layer of materiality that subverts classical ideals associated with the nude form. Do you see other clues about production here? Editor: Yes, I suppose you're right, thinking of it in terms of accessible, repeatable artistic production rather than a fine oil painting on canvas. Now, the term "tragic" has changed over time – it has implications about social class, the economics of classical narratives. If we place that against its granular construction in a drawing, I do think there is an ironic juxtaposition there. Curator: Precisely. Perhaps this contrast invites a contemporary reflection on value and how it's materially constructed within the art market. Editor: Thinking about that now has completely opened up the possibilities this seemingly simple drawing offers. Thanks! Curator: It's been insightful exploring these material aspects together. Thank you!