SESSIONS Ken Martin

The drawing presents a female figure in a moment of intense emotional expression. The subject is depicted from a low angle, emphasizing her stature and creating a sense of dramatic power. Her posture suggests movement; she appears to be leaning forward, perhaps recoiling or reacting to something unseen.
Here we see a striking contrast between the softness of the skin tones and the sharp angles of her features. The artist has rendered the face with an almost unsettling realism – the eyes are wide and appear strained, the mouth is slightly open in what could be interpreted as a cry or a snarl. This heightened emotional state is further amplified by the wildness of her hair, which explodes outwards from her head, seemingly defying gravity.
The lighting contributes significantly to the overall mood. A strong light source illuminates the face and upper body, casting deep shadows that obscure parts of the figure and add to the sense of mystery. The background appears blurred and indistinct, drawing attention solely to the subjects emotional turmoil.
Subtly, there is a suggestion of vulnerability beneath the outward display of strength. The exposed torso hints at fragility, while the intensity in her gaze could be read as a plea for understanding or an expression of inner pain. The black garment she wears offers little comfort and seems to constrict rather than protect.
The composition feels deliberately unbalanced, mirroring the emotional instability conveyed by the subject. It is not merely a portrait; it’s a study of raw emotion, capturing a fleeting moment of psychological distress with considerable skill.