17.11.82 1982

Gerhard Richter created this drawing in 1982 using graphite on paper. At first glance, it appears to be an abstract swirl of lines, but on closer inspection, it might be possible to discern a vase, or perhaps a human figure, within the chaotic lines. Richter is known for his blurred, photo-based paintings, and this drawing shares a similar quality of ambiguity. The graphite is applied in layers, with some lines dark and bold, and others faint and barely visible. It is a reminder that all mark-making is a form of embodied labor. The more time spent, the denser the graphite becomes, creating a sense of depth and texture. By using a simple material like graphite, Richter emphasizes the act of drawing itself. He treats it as a process of exploration and discovery. It also challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, elevating the status of humble materials and processes.