Zwei Figuren (Two Figures) [p. 74] 1914 - 1915

Max Beckmann made this energetic drawing of two figures on paper, probably with graphite. The lines are so alive, like a scribble that’s trying to find its form. It’s a process of searching, of letting the hand lead, which is something I think about a lot in my own work. There’s a real physicality to the marks. You can almost feel the speed and pressure of Beckmann’s hand as he’s trying to capture this fleeting image. The lines overlap and intersect, creating a sense of depth and movement, like the figures are caught in a dance, or maybe a struggle? And the way he leaves parts unfinished, with these loose, gestural lines, it’s like he’s inviting us to fill in the blanks, to imagine the rest of the story. That single line extending to the left, what is it? Is it part of one of the figures, or something else entering the frame? It reminds me of Picasso's quick figure drawings, but with a darker edge. Beckmann leaves space for doubt. It’s a reminder that art isn’t about having all the answers, but about embracing the questions.