Self-portrait 1935

This is a self-portrait etching by Will Barnet. Look closely at how the artist captures his likeness with a network of etched lines, creating a rich interplay of light and shadow. The composition focuses tightly on Barnet's face and upper body, drawing us into his contemplative pose. Barnet's use of the etching medium is particularly significant here. The incised lines allow for a level of detail and texture that suggests the topography of the face, and the weight of thought. This is reminiscent of the graphic works of artists like Picasso and Matisse. The semiotic structure of the image relies on a system of contrast - the bright face against the darker background - to emphasize the psychological depth of the sitter. Ultimately, this print demonstrates how formal elements can converge to construct not just an image, but a profound exploration of selfhood and artistic identity, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between surface and depth in both art and life.