IS4 058 Leslie Szabo 03 (Into the Turn) Leslie Szabo

The drawing captures a moment of intense physical exertion and dynamic movement. Here we observe a cyclist leaning sharply into a turn, his body contorted in response to the centrifugal force. The figure is rendered with a loose, expressive style, suggesting an immediacy and spontaneity in its creation.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by cool tones – blues, grays, and whites – which contribute to a sense of speed and fluidity. These colors are juxtaposed against warmer reds and yellows used for the cyclist’s jersey and highlights on the bicycle frame, creating visual interest and emphasizing key points of focus. The application of pastel appears vigorous; strokes are visible and layered, adding texture and depth to the composition.
The background is largely undefined, a wash of gray that serves to isolate the figure and amplify the impression of motion. A series of sweeping blue lines emanate from behind the cyclist, visually representing the blur of speed and the rush of air. These lines are not merely decorative; they actively contribute to the feeling of momentum and suggest the kinetic energy inherent in the scene.
The composition is cropped tightly around the figure, eliminating extraneous details and concentrating attention on the act of cycling itself. The viewer’s perspective aligns with that of an observer positioned close to the track or road, further immersing them in the experience.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of athletic activity, the drawing hints at themes of control and vulnerability. The cyclists intense focus and leaning posture suggest a struggle against external forces – the curve of the turn, the pull of gravity – while his exposed body conveys a sense of risk and precariousness. The blurred background and dynamic lines evoke not only speed but also a feeling of being swept along by something larger than oneself, hinting at the broader experience of navigating lifes challenges with determination and skill.