#07603 Uxio Souto

The drawing presents two figures rendered in a style reminiscent of sculpture studies or preparatory sketches for larger works. Executed primarily with hatching and cross-hatching techniques, the monochromatic palette emphasizes form and volume over coloristic nuance. The background is starkly dark, isolating the subjects against an undefined space.
Here we see two female nudes standing close together, their bodies intertwined in a complex embrace. Both figures are elongated and stylized, exhibiting a deliberate distortion of natural proportions. Their limbs appear slender and almost fragile, while the torsos possess a pronounced curvature that suggests both sensuality and vulnerability. Each woman raises her arms above her head, fingers pressing against the scalp – a gesture that conveys a sense of introspection or perhaps even anguish.
The figures are not presented in a realistic manner; instead, they appear as abstracted representations of the human form. The artist has prioritized conveying an emotional state over anatomical accuracy. The dense network of lines creates a textured surface, giving the impression of rough-hewn stone or clay. This reinforces the connection to sculptural practice and suggests that these figures are meant to be experienced in three dimensions.
Subtly, there is a sense of duality at play. While the figures are physically connected, their postures and expressions suggest an internal conflict or separation. The mirroring effect – one figure facing slightly more towards the viewer than the other – further emphasizes this tension. One might interpret this as a representation of interconnectedness alongside individual struggle, or perhaps a visual exploration of opposing forces within a single entity.
The overall impression is one of restrained emotion and symbolic weight. The drawing’s simplicity and stark contrast contribute to its power, inviting contemplation on themes of human connection, isolation, and the complexities of inner experience.