Black Club 1981

Richard Diebenkorn made this print, Black Club, using etching, a process where marks are incised into a metal plate. You know, when you look at a print, you're also seeing evidence of all the artist's decisions. The stark contrast between the black ink and the white paper gives this piece a real graphic punch. Look at the way the shapes are both precise and kind of wobbly. It's this combo of control and looseness that makes it so interesting. Diebenkorn wasn't trying to hide the process; you can see all the little scratches and imperfections that come with etching. That vertical line holding the three shapes is so strong, but it's also got this vulnerable quality. It’s like the whole piece is balancing on a tightrope, and the tension makes it exciting. There is something in these geometric figures that brings to mind the paintings of Joan Miró, though maybe with a bit more restraint. But like Miró, Diebenkorn reminds us that art isn't about perfection but about the messy, beautiful process of making.