Study for Many Mansions

Kerry James Marshall's Study for Many Mansions (1994) is a black Conte crayon drawing with smudging on white wove paper. This study likely focuses on a figure or compositional element for the finished painting. The black Conte crayon allows for rich blacks and subtle gradations of tone. Marshall's studies are valued for revealing his creative process.

Marshall's preparatory studies provide insight into the development of one of his most important bodies of work.

This Conte crayon study reveals Marshall's working process, the careful drawing showing the artist's exploration of the composition.