Nancy Lawton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nancy Lawton
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Self-Portrait, 1990
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| Born | 1950 Gilroy, California
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| Died | 2007 (aged 56–57) Albany, New York
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Nancy Lawton (1950–2007) was a talented American artist. She was born in Gilroy, California. Lawton became known for her very detailed drawings. Her artwork is displayed in several famous museums. These include the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Early Artistic Work
Nancy Lawton began her art career using graphite. Graphite is a type of carbon, like the lead in pencils. She used it to create beautiful botanical drawings. These drawings showed plants with amazing detail. She also drew portraits of people. Her portraits captured the unique look of each person.
Discovering Silverpoint
In 1985, Nancy Lawton started using a new art technique. This technique is called silverpoint. Silverpoint drawing uses a silver wire or rod. The artist draws with this silver point on a specially prepared surface. This surface often has a slightly rough coating. As the silver touches the surface, it leaves a faint line. Over time, these silver lines can change color. They might become a warm brown or sepia tone. This change happens as the silver oxidizes.
Why Silverpoint is Special
Silverpoint is a very old drawing method. Artists used it long before pencils were invented. It creates delicate and precise lines. It is also a challenging technique. Artists cannot easily erase silverpoint lines. This means artists must be very careful. They need to plan their drawings well. Lawton mastered this difficult art form. She created many stunning works using silverpoint.
Lawton's Legacy
Nancy Lawton's art is highly valued. Her drawings are part of important art collections. You can find her work in the Art Institute of Chicago. The Brooklyn Museum of Art also owns her pieces. Her art shows her skill and dedication. She left behind a legacy of beautiful and detailed drawings.
