X-radiograph(s) of "Samuel Hopkins" 

Editor: Here we have an X-radiograph of "Samuel Hopkins" by Abner Reed. The grayscale gives it a stark, almost ghostly quality. What do you see in the composition of this piece? Curator: Note the restricted palette: gradations of grayscale establish form. The image plane is activated by this restricted palette where the likeness emerges. Editor: It's interesting how the radiography enhances the texture, making the surface almost palpable. Curator: Indeed, the texture reinforces the image. Have you noticed how the artist uses only light and shadow to create volume? Editor: I do now! I hadn’t considered how much depth the artist achieved with so little. Curator: This radiographic study reveals a new appreciation for the formal elements of portraiture. Editor: I’ve definitely learned to look beyond the subject matter.