Drawing in the Present Tense

A richly illustrated overview of new approaches in drawing, set in the context of recent developments of other forms of contemporary art.

This book explores the variety of ways in which contemporary artists from around the world have come to approach drawing as the primary element of their practice; one which is autonomous: an end in itself rather than a means to an end in another, more substantial medium. In this era, what values can be attributed to the slow, deliberate process of drawing by hand?

The artworks featured in this volume are not confined to traditional tools - one can also draw on a computer, tablet or smartphone, and examples of digital drawing are incorporated into the narrative not as a separate category but as one medium among many.

Grouped in themes that include abstraction and figuration, nature and artifice, social observation and critique. With essays and feature spreads for each section, this selection of international artists of diverse backgrounds and experience includes well known artists and a host of emerging talents. An inspiring overview of the best drawing practice today.