Seated Woman 1975

"Seated Woman" is a pencil on paper drawing by Clement Greenberg. Greenberg, known foremost as an influential art critic, especially of the Abstract Expressionist movement, also produced his own art. The woman in this piece is rendered with a delicate, almost tentative line, evoking a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The choice to depict a seated woman, a classic subject in art history, invites us to consider the historical representation of women and the male gaze. However, Greenberg's sketch avoids idealization, instead presenting a more personal and intimate portrayal. Her gaze, though direct, carries a hint of melancholy, a quiet challenge to the viewer. Greenberg explores an alternative narrative, inviting empathy and connection. The artwork shapes the viewer's understanding of identity, reflecting the emotional and personal dimensions of both the artist and his subject.