Untitled [woman leaning forward] 1955 - 1967

Richard Diebenkorn created this untitled drawing of a woman leaning forward with ink on paper. The work is dominated by a network of decisive lines that capture the figure’s pose with minimal shading. The drawing's composition is sparse, focusing on the interplay between positive and negative space to convey depth and form. Diebenkorn’s use of line is particularly striking. It’s assertive yet economical. The cross-hatching on the subject's legs adds texture and volume, juxtaposed with the flat planes defined by contour lines. The addition of blue scribbles disrupt the monochrome scheme, highlighting the artist’s process. A geometric shape floats mysteriously, hinting at a structuralist approach to representation. Ultimately, this drawing challenges traditional portraiture by emphasizing the abstract qualities of line and form over realistic depiction. It invites us to consider how Diebenkorn uses these basic elements to construct a complex representation.