Nadége Picq 2013

Gazmend Freitag made this drawing of Nadége Picq in 2013. The whole thing is blue, the paper, the lines, the mood, it’s all blue. It’s clear that the focus here is on the act of drawing. The lines are confident but not overworked, feeling around the form as if the artist is mapping the face of Nadége in real time. The paper looks like it’s been prepared with watercolor washes, which adds an ethereal quality to the whole thing. Look at the way the lines around the eyes are darker and more defined than the rest of the drawing, especially that little highlight in the corner of the eye. That little spot of light brings Nadége alive, making her present and thoughtful. It’s like she’s looking right at you. This drawing reminds me of the work of Suzanne Valadon, who also had a knack for capturing the subtle beauty of everyday life. Just goes to show, art is a conversation that spans across time.