Black Bar 1962

Curator: Before us we have "Black Bar" by Michael Rothenstein. Editor: It feels primal, almost totemic. The red disc hovering above the horizontal bar is striking. Curator: Rothenstein's work is deeply rooted in the symbolic potential of simple forms. Notice the textures, likely achieved through woodblock printing. Editor: Absolutely! The grain adds a layer of raw energy. Does that black bar remind anyone else of a flattened hedgehog? Curator: Perhaps, but more importantly, consider the psychological weight. The circle, a Jungian archetype of wholeness, juxtaposed with the assertive, grounded bar. Editor: Or, it is like a sunset obstructed by a very grumpy caterpillar. Either way, I feel grounded with this piece. Curator: Well, the beauty lies in the eye, doesn't it? I am glad to have delved into this work. Editor: Me too. I will never look at grumpy caterpillars the same way again.