Angel of August 

Editor: So, this is Michael Parkes's "Angel of August," a pencil drawing. The detail is just incredible! It feels both classical and a little otherworldly, the way she's nestled into that wing. What strikes you about it? Curator: What I notice is the intensive labor embedded in this drawing. The countless hours spent rendering each feather, each strand of hair... It speaks volumes about Parkes's dedication to his craft, his material practice. How does that connect to its social context? Editor: Hmm, good question! Is it about resisting mass production or embracing pre-industrial modes? Curator: Precisely. The meticulous detail contrasts sharply with the efficiency of industrial image-making. Also note the material itself - humble graphite transformed into something seemingly ethereal. Do you think this choice is commenting on the accessibility of art making? Editor: Maybe! A readily available material, but elevated through skillful manipulation. So it blurs boundaries by utilizing common materials to manifest mythical subjects. Curator: Yes, and how does the commercial availability of the image complicate things? Consider the labor involved in producing prints and distributing them. Does this impact the aura of the original drawing? Editor: That's a good point; it's like the commodification of a spiritual image through the drawing itself and its reproduction. Thanks for that; I never would have approached it from this perspective! Curator: Absolutely. The material realities of art production and consumption shape how we perceive and value the image. Editor: I see how analyzing process opens up new avenues to consider beyond aesthetic appearances.