I was inspired by the concept of forced looking (“insistent gaze”) that Prof. Cooks discussed. One day, I found several images of a woman who exudes grace, even though her face is obscured by a gigantic flower. Although the very essence of her humanity invites the viewer to see her, she never reveals her true self. Drawing such a woman using graphite allowed me to focus purely on the subject. Graphite also evokes both the past and the future happening at once. The title, Absolvement, conveys the notion that even as she draws society’s attention, by choosing to hide her true essence, this woman becomes empowered to free herself of the blame and responsibility society has placed on her. She grants herself mercy.
ility society has placed on her. She grants herself mercy.