Held Breath

Held Breath by Nonnie Gardava is a contemplative figurative work that captures the subtle tension of pausing to breathe under pressure. Created with soft blue washes and delicate pencil linework, the piece depicts a woman seen from behind, her hands pressing into her lower back. The gesture evokes a moment of physical stillness—perhaps a stretch, an exhale, or the weight of breath held in.

Part of the Breath collection, this artwork explores the body as both a container and communicator of emotion. Gardava renders this moment of embodied stillness with sensitivity, drawing attention to how breath connects to presence, pressure, and release. The quiet palette and naturalistic detailing enhance its intimate, reflective quality.

Artwork details:

Artist: Nonnie Gardava

Title: Held Breath

Collection: Breath

Medium: Watercolor and pencil on paper

Style: Figurative, expressive realism
Dimensions: 50x70 cm / 20x28″