Snakes facing (Whisperer a serpent) 1912

Nicholas Roerich made this drawing, *Snakes Facing*, at an unknown date, using dark crayon or charcoal on paper. The initial impression is one of lightness, but also of an underlying sense of unease. Roerich's mark-making seems very immediate and direct. You can almost feel the speed and energy of the hand that created this image. Look at the head of the snake, it is rendered with such a simple use of line, yet it conveys so much about the serpent's character. The surface of the paper remains visible throughout, giving a sense of openness and airiness to the composition. The contrast between the dark marks and the untouched paper creates a dynamic visual rhythm, while also suggesting a feeling of vulnerability and exposure. This reminds me of some drawings by Alfred Kubin, or even Odilon Redon – artists who similarly embraced the ambiguity and the power of suggestion in their work. The conversation between artists continues.