Woman Making Toilet 

Editor: Here we have an intimate glimpse into a woman's private world, captured by James Ensor in what looks like a quick sketch, “Woman Making Toilet,” utilizing pen and pencil. It's so raw and immediate. I'm really drawn to how casual and unfinished it feels. What stands out to you most about this piece? Curator: Oh, I’m instantly snagged by the gesture, aren’t you? That tilted head, the concentration... it's less about physical perfection and more about the ritual. Ensor’s work, at its core, is a bit of a defiant wink, wouldn't you agree? Almost as if he's saying, “Here’s the beauty, not airbrushed, not staged.” It's the opposite of grand, historical paintings showing idealized women. This feels…real, doesn't it? Almost voyeuristic. Editor: Definitely. I think the sketch-like quality adds to that feeling, like we’re peeking into her private routine. But does that make it less “serious” as a piece of art? Curator: Serious? Good heavens, who decided art had to be po-faced? Think of the intimacy here! Ensor is cutting through the fuss to reveal something truthful. And I wouldn’t underestimate the power of a line! What might look like casual strokes, could be so intentionally placed. It’s playful and it begs to disagree about traditional beauty norms. Editor: I hadn’t really considered that rebellion before. Seeing it now I realize how progressive this drawing is. I’m seeing this drawing with completely new eyes now, seeing the intimacy not as something fleeting, but deeply intentional. Thanks for that perspective! Curator: Exactly! So many treasures hide in plain sight, awaiting an inquisitive spirit.