The artwork entitled “Head of E.O.W.” was masterfully created by Frank Auerbach between the years 1959 and 1960. Executed using charcoal and watercolor on paper, this piece is a significant representation within the Expressionism movement. As a portrait, it is currently housed at Tate Britain in London, UK.
In “Head of E.O.W.,” Auerbach explores the human visage with remarkable depth and intensity. The portrait is rendered in a monochromatic palette dominated by charcoal, with strategic touches of watercolor adding subtle variances to the composition. The figure’s face, heavily textured and intricately shaded, emerges from a stark background, imbuing the work with a sense of profound contemplation. A notable feature is the ambiguous, almost abstract rendering of the face, suggesting a painstaking study of form and emotion. The medium’s application demonstrates a deliberate, vigorous stroke, contributing to the overall intensity and emotional resonance of the portrait. The expressive quality of the artwork is evident through its dramatic contrasts and the palpable dynamism of the line work.
