Nude Girl Washing Herself c. 1914 - 1918

Editor: This is "Nude Girl Washing Herself" by Julio Gonzalez. The warm tones of the paper create a feeling of intimacy. What strikes you most about its composition? Curator: The artist's use of line is quite economical, wouldn't you agree? Observe how the contour lines define the figure's form with minimal shading, yet achieve a palpable sense of volume. Note also the contrast between the more defined rendering of the figure and the sketchy depiction of the background elements. What is your reading of that contrast? Editor: I think it directs the viewer's eye to the figure. Thanks to you, I see how Gonzalez prioritizes form and line to create depth. Curator: Indeed. These formal choices reveal Gonzalez’s sculptural approach even in a two-dimensional medium.