Heart Soul | Original Framed Graphite Figure Study (2016)

Juried Exhibition Work • Ready to Hang

Heart Soul is an original graphite figure study created in 2016 as part of a juried solo exhibition exploring movement-based anatomical drawing through the study of belly dance floor work and controlled physical expression.

The series focuses on how the human body creates complex spatial relationships through posture, weight distribution, and grounded movement.

This composition is rendered from an elevated viewpoint, depicting a dancer engaged in a belly dance floor-work position. The pose is achieved through a kneeling transition into a reclined position, with the upper back and shoulders resting on the floor while the torso forms a strong arched structure across the composition.

The emphasis of the drawing is the torso and its anatomical expression—particularly the ribcage expansion, abdominal engagement, and the sculptural curve created through spinal extension. Subtle shadowing across the abdomen reinforces the sense of internal muscular control and directional movement through the core.

The hips contribute to a heart-like visual form within the composition, shaped through both body positioning and tonal contrast.

A highly detailed foot is positioned near the upper torso, creating a close spatial relationship between limb and body that emphasizes flexibility, control, and floor-based choreography. The foot and lower leg interact with the drape of fabric from the skirt, which folds beneath the hips and extends toward the ankle, adding layered texture and movement to the lower portion of the composition.

The face is partially visible and softly rendered, with the gaze directed toward the extended foot, reinforcing the inward focus of the pose.

Every visible anatomical and textile detail—including spinal curvature, rib structure, abdominal tension, and fabric fold behavior—is rendered in highly detailed graphite observational drawing.

Series Context

This work is part of a 2016 academic exhibition exploring movement, anatomy, and cultural dance traditions through figurative drawing and research-based study.

The series was developed through observational study of professional dancers and independent anatomical research during the artist’s BFA studies, with particular emphasis on floor work, body mechanics, and spatial composition.

Artwork Details

• Original graphite drawing (2016)

• Medium: Graphite on paper

• Framed original exhibition work

• Custom handmade frame

• Wired and ready to hang

• One of a kind

• Exhibition original

About This Work

This piece reflects a research-based approach to figure drawing focused on anatomical precision, compositional geometry, and the expressive potential of floor-based movement studies.