HOWARD SCHWARTZBERG

2017   "Lines Behind the Paper"

The series of drawings “Lines behind the paper” use the fundamental line for intrigue. The lines are made with acrylic paint brushed on wet manila paper. Manila paper is used because students first learn to draw in school with this inexpensive paper. The water soaked paper allows the brushed on lines to seep through the pores of the paper, similar to our skin as we see our veins.
The lines are drawn straight and horizontally across the paper from edge to edge suggesting a continuum. They are drawn with care but not precision. Size and spacing of the lines are of importance to balance the composition of each work. The lines change from positive to negative space and slightly reveal themselves as they hug the edges of the paper, exposing or adding to mystery. The drawings are hung on the wall showing their verso.