Prince of the City c. 1981

Robert Peak made this striking image, Prince of the City, with what looks like charcoal and gouache, a medium that lets you build up layers of opacity. The drawing is all about this push-pull, the drama of light emerging from darkness, which feels like a metaphor for the story it illustrates. What grabs me are the raw, almost frantic marks around the figure's head. Peak uses these strokes to convey a sense of inner turmoil, as if the character is literally wrestling with his demons. Then, look at the way the light hits the badge on his chest, a small detail that speaks volumes about identity and duty. It’s not just decoration. This piece reminds me of Leon Golub's paintings. Both artists capture the violence and tension lurking beneath the surface of power. It’s not pretty, but it’s powerful, and it leaves you with more questions than answers – which, for me, is what good art is all about.