Artist Value

This work by Vija Celmins is done in graphite.  By carefully shading the shadows, highlights, and reflected lights, he is able to create a the texture of water so accurately, that this appears photographic.  He creates atmospheric perspective by making the value contrast much lower as you recede into the atmosphere.  The high contrast areas really show the sharp peaks in the water.  The variations in the texture make this black and white piece interesting without the presence of color.  I really enjoy how detailed this picture is.  This probably has a lot to do with the inherent precision of the medium used.