#45137 Arturo Souto

The drawing presents a solitary figure rendered in stark black ink on a warm-toned background. The composition is dominated by the central placement of this individual, who appears to be standing or slightly stooped. A sense of immediacy and raw emotion emanates from the work due to the expressive linework and limited tonal range.
Here we see a person with long, flowing hair that obscures much of their face, contributing to an air of anonymity or perhaps suggesting a loss of identity. The hands are raised towards the head in a gesture that could be interpreted as either supplication, despair, or a desperate attempt at self-protection. This posture is emphasized by the upward thrust of the arms and the slight tilt of the head.
The clothing appears simple – a long tunic or dress reaching to the ankles, with what seem to be rudimentary shoes on the feet. The artist employed broad strokes to depict the fabric, creating a sense of texture and volume while also contributing to the overall feeling of urgency. There is an intentional roughness in the rendering; details are minimized, and forms are suggested rather than precisely defined.
The limited palette reinforces the emotional intensity. The contrast between the dark ink and the pale background creates a dramatic effect, drawing attention to the figure’s posture and expression. The artists signature appears at the lower left corner, adding a personal touch to this intimate portrayal.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of vulnerability and isolation. The obscured face prevents direct connection with the viewer, fostering a sense of distance and perhaps suggesting an internal struggle or profound emotional distress. It is possible that the drawing alludes to experiences of persecution or suffering, although without further context, this remains speculative.