Dancing Figure 1919

Maurice Sterne made this drawing, Dancing Figure, with charcoal on paper, probably in one go. I can imagine him there, in his studio, sheet of paper propped up, charcoal in hand. He’s building up the figure with layers of shading. See how the light falls across her form, how her body twists and reaches, and how the folds of fabric seem to cascade down, clinging to her skin? I wonder if it was a quick sketch from life or something he was imagining? The way Sterne uses line and shadow gives the figure weight, solidity. There’s a confidence in the mark-making, a sureness of touch. Drawing like this, you’re always in conversation with other artists: Rodin and Matisse come to mind. This piece embodies that exchange of ideas across time. Sterne embraces uncertainty, allowing for multiple interpretations. It's like he’s inviting us to complete the dance.