#45097 Arturo Souto

The composition presents a figure rendered in a stark, monochromatic palette dominated by shades of brown and black against a solid dark background. Here we see a man depicted from the waist up, his posture conveying both determination and weariness. He raises one arm in a clenched fist, a gesture commonly associated with solidarity and resistance, while the other hand rests on what appears to be a drawing or sketch held close to his chest. The figure is clad in working-class attire – a cap pulled low over his brow, a collared shirt, and rolled-up sleeves – suggesting an individual engaged directly in labor or conflict.
The artist employed a rough, almost woodcut style, with thick lines and simplified forms that contribute to the images raw emotional impact. The texture of the paper is visible, adding to the sense of immediacy and authenticity. Above the figure’s head, partially obscured by his cap, are what appear to be stamps or markings, possibly indicating a date or official designation.
The text positioned centrally below the figure reads Los Dibujantes en la Guerra de España, which translates to “The Artists in the Spanish War.” This inscription immediately establishes the works thematic focus: the role of artists during wartime. The subtext suggests an exploration of artistic expression as a form of political engagement and documentation, potentially highlighting the experiences of those who used their skills to chronicle or protest the conflict.
The figure’s gaze is directed outward, suggesting both defiance and a call for action. The combination of the clenched fist, the protective hold on the drawing, and the overall somber tone conveys a sense of struggle, resilience, and the importance of artistic contribution in times of upheaval. The work seems to champion those who use their creative abilities as a means of resistance or remembrance during periods of conflict.