Self-Portrait III 1926

Editor: Right, so here we have "Self-Portrait III" by Georges Rouault, created in 1926 using charcoal as a medium. It definitely has this air of introspection, almost sadness. The strong contrast creates a dramatic effect. What catches your eye most about this print? Curator: Ah, Rouault. He peers out at us, doesn't he? It’s like catching a glimpse of his soul. I always think of him wandering through the streets of Paris, a solitary figure absorbing the city's harsh realities, the light and shadow – then transmuting it onto paper, years after. Have you ever felt that impulse to express something, yet find it frustratingly elusive? Editor: All the time! I find it difficult to find my words... is that similar to how Rouault worked? Curator: I'd imagine so! It's as if Rouault's charcoal isn't just depicting a face, but a deep inner landscape, and the charcoal work certainly brings that to the forefront... he's working something out. Notice how the darkest shadows are around his eyes – does it feel to you as though they're holding the key? What do *you* feel as you view it? Editor: Yeah, it is intriguing to have the focus drawn so powerfully to the eyes. It makes me wonder what he's thinking about. I wonder why he's looking down slightly. Is it symbolic? Curator: Possibly. Or perhaps he simply found his most intriguing self when lost in thought? To me, Expressionism is really about that struggle – trying to reach out beyond what's visible. Makes one think. What will you remember from this image? Editor: Definitely that it represents much more than just a face! I really didn’t see that depth initially. Curator: Exactly. Now, go forth and find the depths in everything!