Head of a Woman

"Although ‘Head of a Woman’ is not directly related to the holocaust, it’s general theme of the
endurance and strength of women is a reminder of all the women who endured the holocaust
and its after effects on themselves and their families. It places importance on women as
individuals and particularly the strength of female holocaust survivors. Nonnenmacher
herself endured exile from her country and internment in Rushen Women’s Camp, and then
went on to overcome these difficulties and work successfully as an artist.
‘Head of a Woman’ shows the head and upper torso of a woman in great figurative detail.
Every line, curve and fold of skin is sculpted, particularly around the facial features. Less
detail of the clothing and hair draw focus to the face and neck.
There are grooves sculpted around the eye socket, representing wrinkles, and the open eyelids
and neatly arched brows are defined in exquisite detail.
The woman’s jaw line and shoulders are strong and square; similar angles exaggerate the
squared neckline of her clothing – a simple smock with no added decoration and minimal
surface texturing.
Themes within the work are open to interpretation. As there is no name in the title and no
date to place it on an historical timeline, associations are based on the woman’s appearance
alone. The woman’s weary expression suggests she may be tired from work, or even life
itself.
Whilst the overall appearance of the sculpture suggests a world-weary strength and
endurance, the fine detail and sensitive moulding of the clay adds an element of softness;
making the robust figure appear more thoughtful and appealing."