Fragile

Artist Statement: I began this artwork by finely sketching the face and general shape of the hair using contour lines. Then, I studied different curls in my hair to understand the shading on the curls. I used HB and No.2 pencils to draw flowing lines (to show rhythm and movement). I used only my fingers to smudge. I worked in the butterflies to contrast the bold lines with the flowing lines in her hair. The symbolism is as such: her eyes are closed in reflection on a traumatic event in her life; the wind is blowing her hair to represent the feelings of resentment fleeing her head; I drew monarch butterflies because although they are fragile, they also have the longest migration pattern and represent both regality and resilience; the woman’s frame is noticeably smaller to further indicate the theme of fragility; the soft, barely noticeable lines through her face represent the jail in which she keeps her thoughts subdued. She is the embodiment of strength despite fragility.