Passing Glances: Sketches from the North Line | Mark Frisch

On View May 31 - August 31, 2025

 

Duffy, my first EAC art instructor, told us we had to draw outside of class. So I took my sketchbook onto the North Line commuter train, determined to capture accurate portraits of unsuspecting passengers—while battling the quiet terror that one of them might catch me staring.

At first, I was chasing likeness, trying to pin down faces with fidelity. But somewhere between Wilmette and Ogilvie, I let go of resemblance and leaned into something more interesting: drawings that were simply inspired by the riders themselves.   

These intaglio prints—done in drypoint and aquatint—reflect that shift. The North Line Series isn’t about who these people were, but how they emerged. It’s part of a larger practice: sketching faces, capturing memories, and creating images that reflect the truth - sideways. 

 


GALLERY HOURS & VISITOR INFORMATION

This exhibition will be held in the Second Floor Printmaking Gallery of the Evanston Art Center (EAC). Masks are optional but strongly recommended for students, visitors, and staff.

Gallery Hours

Monday–Thursday: 9am–6pm

Friday: 9am–5pm

Saturday–Sunday: 9am–4pm


HOW TO PURCHASE ARTWORK

Artwork sale proceeds benefit both the artist and the Evanston Art Center. If you are interested in purchasing artwork on display, please contact Emma Rose Gudewicz, Director of Development and Exhibitions, at [email protected] or (847) 475-5300 x 102.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Image Credits: Mark Frisch

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