Abstraction c. 1916

John Marin made this drawing, Abstraction, using graphite on paper. The material itself, graphite, is interesting, as it's the same substance as diamonds, but in a much softer, less structured form. You can see that Marin has taken full advantage of this softness, creating a whole range of tonal values with very light pressure. Graphite lends itself to quick, sketch-like gestures. This suggests that the drawing may have been made on site, rapidly capturing the dynamic environment of the city. Though abstract, the angular lines and geometric shapes evoke urban structures, perhaps skyscrapers or bridges. The visible strokes and erasures add to the sense of immediacy, as though we are witnessing the artist's thought process. The whole thing is premised on the idea of impermanence. The drawing challenges traditional notions of what constitutes a finished work of art. It invites us to appreciate the beauty of process, of the fleeting moment, and the raw energy of creation.