Didactic Dance 

John Silk Deckard created this intaglio print, titled "Didactic Dance." The process of intaglio printing involves incising an image into a metal plate, inking the plate, and then using a press to transfer the ink onto paper. The network of fine lines and cross-hatching gives the figures their distinct texture, weight, and form. The artist’s physical work of etching the plate is evident in the dense lines and shadows, capturing the energy and tension of the scene. Intaglio printing has a rich history in both art and commercial reproduction, requiring specialized skills and equipment. Deckard's engagement with this traditional method places the work within a lineage of skilled craftsmanship. By using this process, the artist highlights the labor involved in creating images, contrasting with the mass production of photography and digital media. The emphasis on materials, making, and historical context is crucial to understanding the full meaning of "Didactic Dance." It challenges the idea that fine art exists separately from craft and labor.