Romeo | Original Framed Graphite Figure Study (2016)

Juried Exhibition Work • Ready to Hang

Romeo is an original graphite figure study created in 2016 as part of a solo juried exhibition exploring the intertwined historical and physical origins of pole dance and movement-based performance art.

This drawing reflects a period in which graphite figure work was the primary focus of the artist’s academic and technical practice during their BFA studies.

The composition depicts a male pole dancer captured in a moment of inverted movement, with his torso and head tightly engaged in rotation around the pole. The perspective is intentionally close-cropped, emphasizing the physical tension and controlled strength of the pose while allowing portions of the body to be partially obscured by the pole itself.

Rather than presenting a full narrative scene, the work isolates a single moment of motion and anatomy, focusing on the structure of the body under strain and balance. Hands are not visible, but the implied grip and support are communicated through positioning and musculature.

Every anatomical detail—including muscle tension, skin folds, and fabric texture where present—has been rendered in highly detailed graphite observation, reflecting the rigorous study-based approach used throughout the exhibition series.

Series Context

This work is part of a larger 2016 exhibition series examining the historical and cultural intersections between pole dance and belly dance. The research behind this body of work was extensive and was noted by faculty as approaching graduate-level academic rigor, particularly in its synthesis of movement study, cultural history, and figurative drawing practice.

Works from this series were published during the artist’s undergraduate studies.

Artwork Details

• Original graphite drawing (2016)

• Medium: Graphite on paper

• Framed original exhibition work

• Custom handmade frame

• Wired and ready to hang

• Highly detailed anatomical figure study

• One of a kind

Pricing

$115

About the Artist’s Practice at the Time

During this period, graphite figure drawing was the artist’s primary focus. This body of work represents a foundational phase in their development before transitioning into silk painting and textile-based fine art practices in later years.