Seated woman 1902

This bronze, Seated Woman, was made by Pablo Picasso, though the exact date is unknown. You can really feel the artist’s hand in the work, it’s like each touch, each push and pull of the material is still present. Looking closely, you can see the texture – the rough surface that catches the light, giving the piece a kind of depth. It's solid, but full of movement, each little groove and ridge seems to have a life of its own. I’m drawn to the way the figure seems to emerge from the block, as if she’s only just becoming visible. For me, the way Picasso has worked the material is a real testament to his skill, but also to his understanding of how process shapes the final artwork. It reminds me of Rodin, who likewise left so much evidence of his own process within the finished piece, where the work feels caught between a state of formation and disintegration. Ambiguity is key, I think!