Entry M
19″ x 16″, graphite
“One of my favorite things to experiment with when I get to work with graphite is its ability to show realism in texture and contrast in light. The photograph that the drawing is based on was taken in my house with my piano, which I chose because of the extreme contrast in light and dynamic sense of depth. I also tried to convey contrast between the different textures- particularly between the wood and keys on the piano.
About the time I began work on this project, I made a very big decision to major in piano at college next year which I think is reflected in the composition and expression on my face. As my class fragmented in the wake of divisive arguments over Covid protocols and my mental health took a bad turn for the first time in my life, I had two sources which kept me grounded: art class and preparation for my college audition. Having two projects which required complete focus and long term goal-setting was a liberating distraction from the surrounding chaos and a haven from the stressful environment around me. I am thankful for this assignment because it gave me an outlet to express what I experienced at this time in a beautiful way.”