This drawing by Laura Bernardeschi Nelson is a coloured pencil illustration on paper, depicting a library and its attendant at the reception desk. The artwork conveys a strong message about the undervaluation of certain jobs in society, particularly that of a library attendant.
Technique
The artist employs a simple, almost childlike illustrative style with bold outlines and vibrant colours. The composition is balanced, with the library attendant as the central figure, surrounded by bookshelves, a desk, and a background filled with text and noise. The use of coloured pencils gives the image a textured, raw, and personal feel, emphasising the everyday nature of the scene. The perspective is slightly flat, reinforcing the sense of routine and monotony associated with the job.
Concept and Message
The drawing critiques how society perceives certain jobs as unimportant or “stupid” when, in reality, they are essential for maintaining cultural and educational institutions like libraries. The speech bubble saying “Silence is golden” contrasts with the chaotic background, where words like “bla bla,” “sorry,” “what?” and “help” suggest constant distractions and perhaps a lack of appreciation for the attendant’s role. The task list on the board, mentioning “rubbish” and “toilet to clean,” highlights how their responsibilities go beyond managing books and include mundane but necessary maintenance work.
The drawing subtly questions society’s values, comparing the library attendant’s significance to that of high-status professions like lawyers, singers, or football players. Without librarians and library workers, these cultural hubs would close, depriving communities of access to knowledge and learning.
Overall, the artwork is both a social critique and a tribute to unsung workers who keep public institutions running.
Laura Bernardeschi Nelson artworld and travels 