Thanks to the quick and friendly work of the guy at Fast Photo who digitized the pictures from recently uncovered photographic slides, we can today publish these forgotten images from the ancient past, which shall hereafter be known as,”Some Of Barry Trowers Early Charcoal Drawings “.
I began drawing with charcoal during life class at art school. This one was drawn with compressed charcoal which is difficult to use because all contact with the paper leaves dramatic traces, which can be used to great effect, but also make it easy to screw up. I like the quick marks, shabby light, reflection in the mirror, and the cubist back on the seated woman in this one.
The king, perhaps lonely for company, crosses over the old stone bridge to mingle with the common folk. Simple shapes reveal a gentle, moonlit scene.
Once again the Grim reaper pays a visit- this guy really should call ahead! I like the marks that form Deaths cloak and frame his scythe and Neanderthalic grin, as well as the scumbling tones which delineate the Maidens face and figure. I also like the hands in this one.
Back in the day I was a young artistic upstart searching for his own means of visual expression. I wanted to make my marks direct and unupholstered, anything less would be phoney, I thought. I love how a few basically abstract and sketchy marks, made by a burnt willow stick on paper, can recreate some of the energy of a street corner scene.
Feeling a little musty after today’s introduction, but still that artsy young punk at heart,
Barry
Barry Trower 