Needlework 1896

Here we see James McNeill Whistler’s drawing of a woman doing needlework, created with graphite on paper. The marks are quickly applied, capturing a sense of immediacy. Look at how Whistler uses hatching and cross-hatching to define the form, especially the figure's dress and the surrounding space. The varying pressure of the graphite creates a range of tonal values, from light grays to deep blacks, adding depth and dimension. The sketch is unfinished, emphasizing the handmade quality, and the amount of time and labor invested in the process. Needlework itself has a rich history, often associated with domestic labor and female craftsmanship. By depicting this scene, Whistler acknowledges the value of these activities, as well as the social context in which they take place. Paying attention to the materials and the processes helps us recognize the importance of everyday life and labor, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.