To siddende kvinder, lænet mod hverandre. 1906 - 1909

Editor: This is "To siddende kvinder, laenet mod hverandre" by Othon Friesz, dating from around 1906 to 1909. It's a pencil drawing of two reclining nude women. The lines feel so energetic, almost unfinished. What jumps out at you when you look at this work? Curator: For me, it's the process itself that's compelling. We see the labor involved. The frantic, repetitive lines suggest a study, a working through of form. The material simplicity – pencil on what we can assume is inexpensive paper – also challenges traditional notions of high art. Think about where this was made and for whom. Was this intended for public display, or a more private audience or pedagogical practice? Editor: So, you're saying the medium is the message, to a certain extent? That the apparent disposability of a sketch reveals more than a polished painting might? Curator: Precisely! Consider the social context: early 20th century, a time of immense social and artistic upheaval. Friesz, associated with Fauvism, was questioning academic tradition. This drawing, with its raw immediacy, reflects that spirit of questioning through its very means of production. The availability of pencil as a readily available medium for preparatory sketches is also interesting when viewed alongside class dynamics within fin-art circles. Editor: It's like the drawing refuses to be precious, even though it depicts the nude form, usually something so idealized in art. Curator: Exactly! And who has access to creating and possessing these sorts of images is also part of the statement made with this artwork. What is consumed when we view these nude sketches and the power relationship present as we admire such works? Editor: That's fascinating. I had just seen it as an unfinished study, but I see your point about it making a statement through its raw materiality. I definitely learned something new! Curator: And I've enjoyed seeing it through your initial impression. The "unfinished" quality highlights the labor and choices made during its creation. A fruitful exchange!