Artwork
Head
Head is a drawing by Paul V. Ulen. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1933, this graphite drawing titled “Head” is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work presents a single portrait study of a young man, rendered in monochrome on paper. It is signed by the artist, Paul V. Ulen, in the lower corner, indicating its status as a preparatory sketch rather than a finished composition.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a youthful male figure turned slightly away from the viewer, his hair neatly trimmed and his expression composed yet serious. The calm gaze and subtly defined jaw suggest an intent to capture the sitter’s character quickly, focusing on the essential features that convey personality without elaborate narrative context.
Technique & Style
Executed with loose, rapid strokes, the piece relies on a light yet precise shading that accentuates the eyes and jawline. The black‑and‑white medium allows Ulen to emphasize tonal contrast, while the sketchy line work conveys immediacy, reflecting a study approach where the artist prioritized speed and observation over detailed finish.
History & Provenance
Attributed to Paul V. Ulen, an American draftsman active in the early twentieth century, the work entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the mid‑20th century. Its dating to the early 1930s places it within a period when Ulen produced numerous portrait studies, often using graphite to explore facial anatomy and expression.
Artist & collection
