Artwork
Youth
Youth is a drawing by Jean Ulen. It dates from 1924 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
This sketch shows a young person with short, straight hair and a calm expression.
This sketch shows a young person with short, straight hair and a calm expression. The lines are soft, especially around the face, and the shading is light. The paper has a few faint pencil marks outside the main drawing.
The artist focused on simple shapes and gentle shadows to show the face. It feels like a quick study, maybe done to practice capturing a likeness.
Next, check out Jean Ulen (American, 1900–1988) to see more of their work.
Overview
Youth is a charcoal or graphite drawing executed around 1924 by American artist Jean Ulen (1900–1988). The work is part of the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is displayed as an example of early twentieth‑century drawing practice.
Subject & Meaning
The composition presents a youthful figure with short, straight hair and a composed expression. The portrait captures a moment of quiet introspection, focusing on the sitter’s face rather than narrative elements, suggesting an interest in the individual’s inner demeanor.
Technique & Style
Ulen employs soft, flowing lines to delineate the facial features, with gentle shading that creates subtle tonal transitions. The drawing appears to be a rapid study, emphasizing simple geometric forms and light shadows, while faint pencil marks along the paper’s edge hint at a spontaneous, exploratory approach.
History & Provenance
Created in the mid‑1920s, Youth entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition (date of purchase not specified). The piece reflects Ulen’s early development as a draughtsman before his later career, and it remains one of the few works by the artist held in a public institution.
Artist & collection
