Untitled ["tattoo" book] 1971

This "tattoo" book was made by James McCracken Jr., although the artwork date is unknown. The book presents a series of images, and what strikes us immediately is the bold graphic quality achieved through simple means. Black ink on a pale surface creates strong contrasts, making each form distinct and impactful. The horizontal arrangement emphasizes a sense of rhythm. McCracken is playing with the structure of signs, using simplified figures that border on abstraction. These shapes might evoke various interpretations, from animal forms to more abstract symbolic representations. The repetition of circular motifs within the figures adds another layer of visual interest, perhaps suggesting eyes or patterns, further complicating their meaning. The starkness of the monochrome palette directs our focus to the form itself. The visual language of the piece invites ongoing exploration and interpretation.