I have been creating graphite reductions since 2014. It started with seeing an exhibit of Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Hals at the Frick in 2014. I found myself looking deeper and deeper into the darks of the paintings and seeing more and more. I wanted to recreate that darkness and pull out imagery where I could. I start with an even layer of soft pencil and then lift areas of light with a kneaded eraser. I never know what will appear but I always look for eyes. The animals grow from there and yes, it is interesting that there are a lot of bunnies, puppies and elephants. All of the graphite reductions are 3.5” x 4.5”.
