PORTRAIT OF A WOMAN

Graphite and charcoal on paper

29.7 x 21.0

This drawing began with a reference image that captivated me—the way the woman’s gaze seems to pierce through and engage directly with the viewer. The flower crown introduces a delicate contrast to the otherwise intense, moody lighting.

As I worked on this piece, the conflict in Ukraine started, and I later discovered that the photographer and, potentially, the model are Ukrainian. This revelation deepened my reflection on the drawing. It made me think about the lives of the people behind the image and the circumstances they might be facing.

This context adds a layer of poignancy to the work, reminding me of the resilience and stories behind every image we encounter. While the mood of the piece is contemplative, it also serves as a reminder of the strength and humanity that persist even in challenging times.