Untitled 1950

Saul Steinberg made this photo with ink and pencil, and it's like he’s messing with our heads, which I love. The black lines are laid over a black and white photograph, right? It’s all about how we see, and how simple marks can completely alter our perception. Look at the way the figure is drawn. It’s so basic, almost childlike, but then you notice the details, like the frilly edge of the dress and those high heels. It’s like a cartoon slipping into reality. The lines are confident, direct, not fussy. The surface is smooth, because it’s a photograph, but those drawn lines add a layer of texture, making you question what’s real and what’s not. It reminds me a little bit of Magritte, but with a playful, less serious vibe. Steinberg isn't trying to give us answers, just nudging us to look closer and think about the funny ways we make sense of the world.