Moroccan in Green 1932

This is 'Moroccan in Green' by Zinaida Serebriakova, a drawing, probably on paper, from 1932. Look at the layered strokes of charcoal or pastel, how they build this figure up, bit by bit. I imagine Serebriakova starting with a few quick lines to capture the pose, then slowly adding more detail, more shadow, more depth. I love the way she uses color here. It’s not just descriptive; it's expressive. That yellow turban pops against the brown skin and the muted greens and blues of his clothing. There's a real sense of light and atmosphere, a feeling of warmth and intimacy. I think that by using these layered colors and tones, Serebriakova encourages us to see the painting as an invitation to meditate on the sitter's inner world. It reminds me a little of Degas, with the intimate portrayal of people in everyday life. Artists are always looking at each other, learning from each other, responding to each other. And even though their styles may be different, there's always a connection, a conversation happening across time and space. It makes me want to pick up a brush and join in.