Mark Making

Mark making is a term used to describe the lines, patterns and textures that can be created using different art materials in different ways. A whole range of descriptive marks can be made using a simple 2B pencil by moving it quickly, slowly, heavily or softly across the surface of the paper.

Some of the best examples of mark making can be seen in the drawings of sculptors. Because of their close relationship with the tactile nature of objects - surfaces, textures and forms - their drawings use marks in the most descriptive and sensitive ways.

The drawings of Henry Moore epitomise this concept. Whether it be his war time drawings of underground shelters and miners, preliminary sketches for sculptures or his beloved sheep, his use of simple media such as inks, wax crayon, charcoal and chalks shows his deep understanding of form and texture.

Peter Randall-Page produces large sculptures based on seed forms. His drawings explore the forms and shapes in intense detail.

Sarah Sze uses objects that would normally end up in the recycling bin to create installations that fill whole rooms. Her drawings reflect the shapes and patterns, not only of the objects within the sculpture, but of the spaces in between.