Study for ‘Discs’ 1978

Editor: This is William Roberts’s study for ‘Discs’, done sometime before 1978. I notice the figures each hold a record, looking quite disaffected. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The discs are a powerful symbol here. Before digital music, these objects held entire worlds. The figures' disconnection perhaps reflects a societal unease with rapidly changing times, or maybe a yearning for simpler auditory experiences. Do you agree? Editor: That’s interesting – a simpler experience, maybe lost in repetition? Thanks, that gives me a lot to think about. Curator: The symbolism enriches the study, doesn't it? We’ve both gained a new appreciation, I believe.