Untitled [female nude reclining on right side] 1955 - 1967

Richard Diebenkorn made this drawing of a reclining female nude with charcoal on paper. The inherent qualities of the charcoal - its powdery texture, its lightness of touch - invite the artist to explore the subject in a way that’s open, unfixed. The marks are light, sketchy, and rapid, which suggests that it was made in one sitting. Looking closely at the image, you can see the paper texture, which adds a tactile quality to the drawing. The artist uses the side of the charcoal to create broader strokes and shading, giving the figure volume and depth. The overall effect is one of intimacy, as if we are invited to witness a private moment. While drawing may be traditionally seen as separate from design or craft, it’s important to remember that many creative practices, including Diebenkorn’s, involve a combination of skills and techniques from different fields. This drawing, with its emphasis on line and form, invites us to consider the artist's process and the way he brings together different creative traditions to create a unique and compelling image.