Sketch of a Seated, Male Nude; verso: Sketches of a Seated, Male Nude 19th-20th century

Editor: So, this is William Valentine Schevill's "Sketch of a Seated, Male Nude," a pencil drawing with no known date. It feels like a very vulnerable and honest depiction. What strikes you most about it? Curator: I'm interested in the power dynamics inherent in the artistic gaze. Who gets to be seen, how, and by whom? Schevill's sketch, seemingly straightforward, participates in a history of objectifying the male nude, but also perhaps humanizing it through the intimacy of the sketch form. What tensions do you perceive between objectification and vulnerability here? Editor: That’s a complex point! I hadn't considered the power of the gaze. I’ll definitely keep that in mind when looking at similar pieces. Curator: Precisely! Considering these power dynamics allows us to engage with art on a deeper, more critical level.