Virgil Thomson (1896-1989) 1973

Curator: Let's turn our attention to this portrait, "Virgil Thomson" by Don Bachardy. Editor: It's a light touch for such a weighty subject; the graphite almost fades into the paper. Curator: Bachardy was known for these intimate portraits of cultural figures. Thomson, of course, a celebrated composer and critic. Editor: You can see the hand of the artist so directly. The subtle shading brings out the texture of Thomson's skin. It's about the act of observation, of drawing. Curator: Absolutely, and consider the context. Bachardy capturing Thomson, a composer, in a visual medium. It speaks to the cross-pollination of artistic spheres. Editor: It makes me think about the tools, the paper, the pencils Bachardy selected; it’s a deceptively simple process that reveals so much. Curator: A poignant reminder that behind every icon, there's a human being, rendered visible through skilled hands. Editor: I agree, and that sensitivity to the material is what makes it so compelling, even now.