Harvest Talk

Harvest Talk by Charles White (1953)

Harvest Talk, created in 1953 by Charles White, is a compelling example of the artist's mastery in using charcoal, Wolff's carbon drawing pencil, and graphite, enhanced by techniques such as stumping and erasing on ivory wood pulp laminate board. This work exemplifies White's dedication to portraying the dignity and resilience of African American life, a recurring theme throughout his oeuvre. White's ability to convey profound emotion and narrative through monochromatic media has cemented his status as a pivotal figure in 20th-century American art. Born in 1918, White's career was marked by his commitment to social justice and his role as an influential educator, inspiring future generations of artists. Harvest Talk not only reflects White's technical prowess but also his deep engagement with the cultural and historical contexts of his subjects.

"Harvest Talk" (1953) by Charles White is a masterful drawing that employs charcoal, Wolff's carbon drawing pencil, and graphite, utilizing techniques such as stumping and erasing on ivory wood pulp laminate board. The artwork reflects White's characteristic style of social realism, capturing the dignity and resilience of African American subjects engaged in conversation amidst a rural setting.