Lawrence Edward Kupferman, Saratoga Springs Victorian
Recommended by Emma (Marketing & Communications Manager):
"The architectural detail of the Victorian style is beautifully detailed in this drypoint. In a world of fast production and cheap materials, this style appeals to a longing for craftsmanship of times past. In this way it tugs at a deep desire to pursue the more fulfilling aspects of human experience, regardless of the rhythm of modern life. It prompts us to seek out artists and craftspeople, support our local makers, and reject the blitz of corporate advertising. Both the drypoint medium and the architecture depicted remind us that the best things in life require time and great care, and bring us closer in touch with our fellow humans."
Vladimir Zuev, Leda and Swan (Ex Libris)
Recommended by Nikki (Fine Print Photographer & Content Publisher):
"This tiny etching is expertly crafted by Eastern European artist, Vladimir Zuev, to illustrate the story of Leda and the swan (aka, Zeus pretending to be a swan). Zeus seduces or rapes Leda, depending on the storyteller. Zeus fills the background, but subtly, despite his violent action. Instead, Zuev centers the story on Leda and does not overly sexualize her like most popular depictions, including not giving her hair. There are clues to her gender, but she is closed off to the viewer with her crossed legs and bent arms - not available for visual consumption. Instead, Leda is looking directly at the viewer - forcing us to look at her humanity.
This image serves as a reminder that violence towards women is still prevalent, but not just in overt actions. It exists in the books we read, the media we consume, the words we use, the stories we retell, the art we purchase. This small image packs a very large punch and reminds us to critically analyze our own behaviors and constructs of thinking around women and violence."
Cleo Wilkinson, Then IV
Recommended by Paige (Collections Manager):
"Cleo Wilkinson's figures in black send chills down my spine. In Then IV, the boy's skin is velvet against the black circle. You can make out the fuzz of his short hair and maybe even a few goosebumps on his back. The circle perfectly frames the quiet scene and draws your attention in to the beautiful shadows and transitions. Wilkinson has a unique eye for the perfect moment to zoom in, the right glance or breath. Then IV is a calm, beautiful moment that I love to get lost in."
Faith Ringgold, Somebody Stole My Broken Heart
Recommended by Rebecca (Gallery Manager):
"Somebody Stole My Broken Heart is a perfect encapsulation of jazz and live music performance, from the colors to the composition to the texture. You can see, feel, and almost hear the music from the vibrations in blue, which have an exuberance that matches the musicians. The singer's arms are outstretched as she lets everything go and pours it into her performance, eyes closed. Energy radiates from the bright yellow shared by the dress, cymbals and saxophone, the small dashes of green throughout and the rich red background. Ringgold captures jazz in a way that only an artist born in Harlem in 1930 can."
Charles Spitzack, Into the Wind, Train Series No. 12
Recommended by Sam (Owner & Director):
"This striking image was created from a single woodblock. Spitzack convincingly captures what it is to struggle against the wind. The power required to combat that force and the resulting negative space left behind, are reinforced by the bent posture and aggressive treatment of the arms and hands of the figure."
