SYSTEMATIC DRAWINGS
SYSTEMATIC DRAWINGS
Merriam-Webster Dictionary:
systematic (adjective)
1a. relating to or consisting of a system
1b. presented or formulated as a coherent body of ideas or principles
1c. methodical in procedure or plan
2. marked by thoroughness and regularity
The term systematic refers to a methodical and structured approach; in this work, it denotes the deliberate process by which each mark is produced through controlled repetition, gesture, and force.
Charcoal, one of the earliest human-made materials, has played a key role in the development of civilization. Its production involves removing moisture and volatile compounds from organic matter to produce a carbon-rich residue through a simultaneously delicate and violent process. Historically, charcoal was used in prehistoric cave art, making it a fundamental medium in the history of human visual expression. My choice to work with charcoal comes from its importance in cultural growth and artistic practice.
The works shown are rooted in printmaking traditions, with particular reference to monotype processes. Each composition originates from a dry-brushed canvas coated with powdered charcoal, then forcefully applied to the support surface to create a unique and expressive mark. Tonal variation and shape result from the interaction of the canvas form, the amount of charcoal, and the force used with each gesture.
Much like human existence, each drawing is singular and carries its own unique qualities. When viewed collectively, this individuality becomes the common thread. The repetitive process of creating them, shaped by force, chance, and variation, encourages reflection on the tension between chaos and order, accident and intention. In this way, the work captures moments of turmoil and destruction that ultimately create images of mysterious beauty.
Jesús De La Rosa
Systematic Drawings, 2008 - Present
Photos are from exhibits at the University of Texas-Brownsville, UTSA Satellite Space, South Texas College, and KSpace Contemporary. At the UTB exhibit, I aimed to create an inclusive and interactive experience that blurred the line between artist and audience. Visitors at the opening reception were invited to make drawings on-site, directly contributing to the evolving installation and fostering a sense of collective expression and community.
This series includes over two hundred individual works on paper. Dimensions 22"x 30" per individual sheet created on Utrecht American Masters paper. The installation is flexible in size, making it suitable for various exhibition spaces. The entire series is available for display, and individual pieces can be purchased. Production of this series began in 2008 and continues to the present day.