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Nov 25th 2008

Tell Tale Heart boasts an impressive gallery of works that are both somber and romantic. The enigmatically titled | | | | | is a beautiful ink drawing which is highly expressive, despite the deceptive simplicity.

The composition is nearly symmetrical, with only a barely shifted weight in the figure seeming to subtly indicate that there's something wrong in her world. This is enhanced by a slight nervous energy visible in the linework, itself. These details are demure, but deliberate, and we feel we're looking into a world of intense emotion, hidden behind a calm demeanor of human alienation. The figure is turned away from us, cutting her off from any interaction with the viewer. The white background makes an excellent contrast for the dark foreground elements, allowing us to properly appreciate the care and attention put into the drawing of the wrought-iron gate and the girl it imprisons. Additionally, the negative space is here in such contrast as to act as its own element. It has weight and presence...and unfolds as an expanse of emptiness, conjuring a loneliness that is absolutely heartbreaking. The overall effect is poetry, firmly entrenched in the aesthetic traditions of Victorian Gothic Revivalism.

Artist suggested by Hagelstram.