#47390 Alex Katz

Here we see a drawing depicting two women in what appears to be a state of undress or post-bathing, given their head coverings and minimal attire. The artist has rendered them in a straightforward style, prioritizing the depiction of form over elaborate detail. The figures are positioned close together, with one woman leaning against the other, creating an intimate connection between them.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to its starkness and immediacy. The lack of color directs attention towards the lines and contours that define the subjects bodies. There is a certain vulnerability conveyed through their poses and expressions; they seem unselfconscious, perhaps caught in a moment of quiet intimacy or reflection.
The artist has paid particular attention to the rendering of musculature and bone structure, suggesting an interest in anatomical accuracy. However, this isn’t presented as purely scientific observation; rather, it serves to emphasize the physicality and presence of the women. The lines are loose and expressive, lending a sense of spontaneity to the work.
The composition is vertically oriented, drawing the eye upwards from the lower figures towards their faces. Their gazes are direct and unwavering, establishing a connection with the viewer that feels both confrontational and inviting. This creates an unsettling tension between the intimacy of the scene and the observer’s position. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation on themes of femininity, companionship, and perhaps even resilience.