Frank Reynolds, R.I. by A.E. Johnson
page 8 of 30 (26%)
page 8 of 30 (26%)
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does more than satisfy. It arrests: revealing in its simple
transcription of pose or expression a significance which had previously escaped our shallow observation, but of which the truth is forced upon us. By comparison, one feels that, despite the fine finish of his pencil work, in the latter medium he loses, to a certain extent, the opportunities for that incisive sureness--so suited to his own unerring vision--which pure line affords him. Consider the drawing (on page 32) of the girl singing in a Paris _café_. There is no dependence on aught extraneous for the achievement of the effect sought. Yet here, if ever, a human soul is laid bare in all its naked tragedy. [Illustration: WORKING PARIS AT LUNCHEON. _From "Paris and some Parisians"_] For sheer power in the art of drawing, Frank Reynolds has few equals and no betters. As a draughtsman pure and simple, he seems to me well-nigh perfect, whether he has pen, pencil, or stump of charcoal in his hand. It is the great merit of his work, as it appears to me, that it depends for the achievement of its intention solely on its own intrinsic qualities. It has no tricks, no mannerisms, no "fakements" to distract the attention and conceal weaknesses. It is straightforward, direct in its appeal, self-reliant in its challenge. [Illustration] To quote the words of a critic of discernment, as he passed from drawing to drawing, "Frank Reynolds is right, right--right every time." This is praise to which one can hardly add. |
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