Male Head 1925

Editor: So, this is Denman Waldo Ross's "Male Head," and it's a pencil drawing. I'm struck by how raw and unfinished it feels, with all the construction lines showing. It feels very vulnerable. What catches your eye when you look at this piece? Curator: Vulnerable is a good word. It’s as if we’re seeing the artist's thought process laid bare. Notice the geometric underdrawing – he’s searching for form, not just rendering likeness. It reminds me that art isn’t always about the finished product; sometimes it’s about the journey of seeing. Do you think the artist knew this when he made the work? Editor: That's interesting; it does feel like an exercise of some sort! Thank you! Curator: Yes, this makes one consider a new meaning behind the intention and finalization of the art piece.