The Seasons (Spring) [2nd state] 1987

Jasper Johns created this etching titled "The Seasons (Spring)" sometime after 1987. The image shows fragmented, overlapping motifs against a background of diagonal lines. Johns was an important figure in the move away from Abstract Expressionism. You can see that Johns is playing with the politics of imagery. A raised fist can be seen in this piece, which calls to mind the social movements from the 1960s onwards, and we can reflect on the cultural associations of that symbol. He is asking us to look at the process of seeing, and the relationship between the image and the world. To understand this piece further, you might consider Johns' earlier works. Look at how they relate to wider trends in American art and culture. Consider how institutions such as museums and galleries shape the reception of pieces like this. This is just one way in which historical context can inform how we interpret and give meaning to art.