personality | drawing sp'13

A person's back can be equally suggestive of character, as their face. 

Early work as a newspaper illustrator made George Luks adept at recording quick, on-the-spot sketches, such as this drawing. Despite the cursory treatment of forms, he conveyed a sense of his subject's individuality through such details as the bunched sleeves, the distinctive fedora, and the creased skin at the back of the neck. The man's stance suggests that he - like the artist - has stopped to observe some urban spectacle. Indeed, Luks constantly roved the bustling streets of New York City with sketchpad in hand. 

- Fine Lines: American Drawings from the Brooklyn Museum 

George Luks (1867-1933)

Here, a more animated personality bursts forth with Matt's comedic precision. Back pockets accentuate robust curves, while the movement of line, and a dimple in the elbow shows this woman's swagger. Seemingly, just another New York City charmer - yet sketched from a model in class. 

Matt