1966 Suzanne et les vieillards 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The drawing presents a complex arrangement of figures rendered in a fluid, linear style. Here we observe three human-like forms interacting within a vaguely defined space. The composition is dominated by elongated limbs and distorted facial features, characteristic of a deliberate departure from naturalistic representation.
A central female figure occupies the right side of the image. She sits with her legs drawn up towards her chest, her torso turned slightly away from the viewer. Her face, though simplified, conveys an expression that appears to be one of contemplation or perhaps even mild apprehension. The artist has emphasized the curve of her back and the contours of her breasts, suggesting a focus on the female form, albeit in a stylized manner.
To the left of this figure are two other entities. One is positioned horizontally, seemingly reclining or falling, with its head tilted at an unusual angle. A smaller figure appears to be emerging from or attached to this larger one, creating a sense of entanglement or interdependence. The faces of these figures are particularly expressive, exhibiting exaggerated features that contribute to the overall feeling of unease and ambiguity.
The lower portion of the drawing is populated with stylized plant forms – leaves and stems – which appear almost as an extension of the figures themselves. These organic shapes further blur the boundaries between human and natural elements, contributing to a dreamlike or symbolic quality. The lines are confident and continuous, suggesting a rapid execution and a focus on capturing gesture and emotion rather than precise detail.
Subtextually, the drawing seems to explore themes of aging, vulnerability, and perhaps even familial relationships. The presence of old figures (as suggested by their names) alongside a younger woman hints at generational dynamics and the passage of time. The distorted forms and ambiguous interactions suggest a psychological landscape rather than a straightforward narrative scene. Theres an underlying tension present – a sense of fragility and potential threat conveyed through the contorted poses and unsettling facial expressions. The entanglement of figures and the merging of human and plant life could be interpreted as metaphors for interconnectedness, dependence, or even decay. Ultimately, the drawing resists easy interpretation, inviting viewers to engage with its symbolic language and construct their own meanings.