Iris c. 1920s

Frances Gearhart made this image "Iris" with color woodcut, and what grabs me is how she uses this medium to create a real sense of depth. The thing with prints is that they’re all about process. The way the blocks of color overlap here, it’s almost like she’s building up layers of feeling as much as layers of ink. Look at the way the path recedes into the distance, framed by those crazy, jewel-toned irises. It feels like a real invitation to step into another world. It gives you this intimate view into a garden. There's something about that contrast between the cool blues and greens and the warmer tones of the flowers, the way she captures light filtering through the trees, that really makes you feel like you're there. It reminds me a little of those Nabis painters like Bonnard, who were so good at capturing the quiet beauty of everyday life. Ultimately, this print is a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, if you just know where to look.