Seated female nude, arm over head 1920

Rupert Bunny made this drawing of a seated nude figure using graphite on paper. Bunny has used delicate lines to capture the softness and curves of the human form. Graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material, allowed him to sketch freely and revise his composition. The visible lines and subtle shading reveal the artist's process, offering a glimpse into his way of working and thinking. The choice of a nude subject is itself a tradition rooted in classical art, where the human form was celebrated for its beauty and perfection. However, Bunny's more intimate and informal portrayal of the figure, has a different feel. This drawing is a study, a working out of form in line. Looking at the artwork through the lens of its materials and making helps us appreciate the choices Bunny made. By challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, we can gain a deeper understanding of the skill and artistry involved in this seemingly simple drawing.