Pariah: The Legend 1: The Water Sphere 1924

Editor: This is Ernst Barlach’s "Pariah: The Legend 1: The Water Sphere," a drawing. The woman's gaze is so intense. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a stark depiction of societal alienation. Barlach, deeply affected by the First World War, often explored themes of marginalization. The "Pariah" suggests a figure burdened by an otherness, the sphere perhaps representing something vital, yet isolating. Editor: Isolating, how so? Curator: Consider the historical context. The term "pariah" carries heavy connotations of social exclusion. How might Barlach be using this image to comment on the treatment of those deemed different? Editor: So it's not just about the woman, but about the system that ostracizes her. Curator: Precisely! And Barlach uses her determined expression to show resilience in the face of such oppression. Editor: This gives me so much more to think about! Curator: Me too. Art always speaks to us on more than just one level.