The Minotaur (from Dante's "Divine Comedy"); verso: possible sketch for "The Devils Under the Bridge" 1824 - 1827

Editor: This watercolor drawing, "The Minotaur" by William Blake, plunges us into a scene of turmoil. I’m struck by the dynamism and the stark contrast between the figures. What formal elements stand out to you in this composition? Curator: Note how Blake employs a dramatic chiaroscuro effect. Light and shadow are starkly juxtaposed, heightening the emotional intensity. Consider, also, the figure's torsion and distortion. Are these exaggerations deliberately employed to express its inner state, or could it be something else? Editor: It emphasizes the chaotic energy of the minotaur, I see. Curator: Precisely. Blake’s work compels us to examine not merely what is depicted, but how it is rendered. This focus on the medium itself yields deeper insights. Editor: This really encourages a closer look at Blake's technique and how it shapes the meaning.