Faculty of Art

Drawing and Painting

Jasmine Huber

The Apprentice

This drawing is based on a photograph of my grandfather during his early years as a millwright apprentice in Vienna, Austria. What stands out in the image is the way he approaches the task, with a quiet focus and care that point to a strong work ethic. I was drawn to the quiet intensity of the moment. His attention is fixed on the task in front of him, hands engaged, fully present in the labour.Originally a black and white image taken roughly seventy years ago, I’ve translated it into colour, starting with a base layer of its original greyscale colouring, then building up layered tones to reintroduce warmth into the scene. This slow accumulation of surface mirrors the patience and discipline that the image suggests. Subtle shifts in colour and texture allow the figure to emerge gradually, maintaining the stillness of the original photograph while giving it a renewed sense of presence.For me, this work is about recognizing the foundation of who he became. There is a quiet dignity in the act of learning, in showing up and committing to the work day after day. That steady drive is something I’ve always admired in him, and this piece became a way of sitting with that part of his story a little longer.