Voice of the Turtle 1951

Alfred Bendiner's ink drawing, "Voice of the Turtle", presents a whimsical panorama of urban life. Bendiner, an architect by trade, often infused his art with social commentary and humor, reflecting the complexities of the world around him. The drawing's composition, populated by a diverse cast of characters, invites us to consider the social dynamics at play. Observe the figures gathered at cafes, reading newspapers, perhaps indicative of a society grappling with information and discourse. Notice the presence of women in traditional aprons, juxtaposed with more affluent figures in suits and hats, suggesting class distinctions and gendered roles within society. There is also a car pulling another car piled high with luggage, maybe a family moving due to war? Bendiner’s caricatured style allows for a playful yet critical examination of societal norms and human behavior. This piece serves as a reminder of the importance of observing, questioning, and engaging with the world around us, and to do so with both humor and empathy.