cr RobinWood PoP 62 Desdra Robin Wood

Here we observe a portrait study rendered in colored pencil on what appears to be textured paper. The subject is a young woman depicted from the chest upwards, facing forward with a slight turn of her head towards the viewers left. Her gaze is direct and seemingly contemplative, conveying an impression of quiet introspection rather than overt emotion.
The artist has employed a muted palette dominated by cool tones – grays, blues, and purples – which contribute to a somber yet elegant atmosphere. The skin tone is rendered with subtle gradations, suggesting a realistic approach to capturing the nuances of human complexion. Hair, styled in loose waves framing her face, exhibits careful attention to detail; individual strands are delineated, creating texture and volume.
The woman’s attire consists of a dark-colored garment with decorative embroidery on one sleeve. The embroidered design is intricate, featuring stylized floral or geometric motifs rendered in shades of purple and cream. This embellishment introduces an element of fantasy or historical reference, hinting at a narrative context beyond the simple portrait.
A handwritten inscription appears beneath the image: DESDRA, followed by a signature and date (© Robin Wood 1988). The name itself suggests a character from folklore or literature, reinforcing the sense that this is not merely a likeness but an interpretation of a specific persona.
The composition is balanced and symmetrical, with the subject centrally positioned within the frame. The use of soft shading and blending techniques creates a gentle, almost dreamlike quality. The overall effect is one of restrained beauty and understated drama, inviting speculation about the woman’s story and her place within a larger narrative. The artists choice to focus on the upper body suggests an emphasis on character and inner life rather than external circumstances or setting.