Hammerklavier (trial proof) 1959

Editor: This is Ceri Richards' "Hammerklavier (trial proof)," a print of undetermined date. I am struck by the interplay of geometric shapes and the contrast of dark and light areas. What compositional elements stand out to you? Curator: The formal construction relies heavily on contrasting planar forms: the textured white triangle is juxtaposed with the smoother, curvilinear brown shape. Consider the negative space, its active role in defining these forms. Does this tension between shapes create a sense of dynamism or stillness? Editor: It's dynamic, definitely. The shapes pull my eyes in different directions. I see what you mean about the negative space adding to that. Curator: Precisely. The success here lies in the skillful arrangement of these abstract elements, achieving a visual harmony through formal means alone. A testament to the power of pure abstraction. Editor: I hadn’t considered it that way, thinking about the harmony rather than just the shapes themselves. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure.