Portrait 

This is a portrait by Greek artist George Bouzianis, though the exact date it was made is not known. Bouzianis lived through periods of immense social upheaval, including the Balkan Wars, World War I, and the Greek Civil War; these events greatly influenced his artistic vision. Bouzianis' expressionistic style seeks to reveal the inner emotional and psychological states of his subjects. The subject of this particular portrait exudes a somber and contemplative mood. The loose charcoal strokes and the subject’s haunting eyes pull us into their world of silent reflection. There's a quiet intensity here, a refusal to perform for the viewer. Looking at this piece I am reminded of the many uncelebrated faces throughout history, particularly from marginalized communities. Bouzianis’ portrait invites a dialogue about visibility, representation, and the emotional weight of living through turbulent times.