#10965 Rafael Zabaleta

Here we see a drawing rendered in a monochromatic palette, utilizing dense cross-hatching and varied line weight to create depth and texture. The composition is complex, layering disparate elements within a seemingly pastoral setting. A palpable sense of unease permeates the scene, achieved through the juxtaposition of naturalistic depictions with surreal and unsettling imagery.
The foreground is dominated by two figures: one seated on an elevated rock formation, appearing contemplative or melancholic as she examines what appears to be a leaf or flower. Her pose suggests vulnerability and introspection. To her left, within a body of water, resides a figure contained within a small boat. This figure’s face is distorted, almost mask-like, conveying a sense of isolation and perhaps imprisonment. The exaggerated features contribute to the overall feeling of psychological distress.
The middle ground introduces further ambiguity. A partially submerged figure, seemingly in mid-leap or struggle, occupies the left side of the composition. Its posture suggests both effort and desperation, while its exposed form adds to the unsettling nature of the scene. Behind this figure, a landscape unfolds with what appears to be a rural dwelling and agricultural implements – a scythe prominently displayed. This backdrop, however, feels detached and almost menacing in its stillness.
The artist’s use of perspective is unconventional; the scale relationships between elements are distorted, contributing to the dreamlike quality of the work. The dense hatching creates a visual weight that emphasizes the emotional intensity of the scene. Theres an intentional blurring of boundaries – between reality and fantasy, confinement and freedom, beauty and horror.
The subtexts within this drawing seem to explore themes of isolation, psychological turmoil, and the fragility of human existence against a backdrop of seemingly idyllic nature. The distorted faces and unsettling poses suggest suppressed anxieties or internal conflicts. The overall effect is one of quiet dread, leaving the viewer with a lingering sense of unease and unanswered questions about the narrative unfolding within the frame.