Sterling Ruby's drawings are a vital component of his diverse and multidisciplinary art practice, characterized by their raw and volatile energy. These monochrome works, executed in ink or graphite, represent an entirely new body of work for Ruby. They embody a spontaneous and expressive quality, capturing the same kind of raw, unfiltered emotion that poet Allen Ginsberg's words do on a page. This connection to the beat poet's "first thought, best thought" approach indicates a deeper philosophical engagement within Ruby's art, where intuition and immediacy play a critical role​ (Xavier Hufkens)​.

Ruby's exhibitions, such as "DROWSE MURMURS" and "A RELIEF LASHED + A STILL POSE," underscore his multifaceted approach to creation, blending his interests in societal themes with personal expression. His artworks often serve as a visual exploration of themes ranging from sociocultural dynamics to personal identity, articulated through the intimate and immediate medium of drawing. These drawings are not just aesthetic objects but are dense with meaning, serving as a direct conduit for Ruby's explorations into the human condition and the societal structures that shape our experiences​ (Xavier Hufkens)​.

Through his work, Sterling Ruby invites viewers into a complex dialogue with the materials and themes he engages, offering a glimpse into the artist's extensive and varied practice. His drawings, with their direct and often stark execution, provide a unique insight into the artist's broader artistic concerns, highlighting his ability to traverse and blend different mediums and messages with a singular, impactful voice.