Dancing Figure c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have "Dancing Figure", an undated drawing at the Harvard Art Museums, made by someone imitating Auguste Rodin. It feels very classical, but also unfinished. What’s your take on it? Curator: The sketch quality opens up interesting dialogues about the male gaze and the representation of women in art, especially considering Rodin’s own complicated relationships with his models and collaborators, like Camille Claudel. How does the imitator’s position impact its meaning? Editor: Interesting. I hadn't thought about it like that. Curator: Consider the power dynamics at play, how the figure is presented as fragmented, almost vulnerable. It invites us to question the artist’s intentions. Does it perpetuate or critique traditional representations? Editor: I think that's a great point, it really gives me a new perspective on what I'm seeing! Curator: Right, it’s about interrogating the historical and social context and how that informs our reading of the artwork today.