Untitled c. 20th century

Editor: Here we have an albumen print, "Untitled," attributed to James Bartlett Rich, and estimated to be from the 20th century. The buildings nestled at the base of the cliff really draw my eye, they create such a strong contrast between the man-made and the natural. How would you interpret this piece? Curator: From a formalist perspective, observe how the composition relies heavily on the interplay of light and shadow. Notice the tonal gradations, ranging from the luminous sky to the deep blacks in the foliage. The linear recession created by the canal, roadway, and rooftops establishes depth and guides the viewer's gaze. The textures too are so detailed and varied. Editor: The textural differences definitely stood out, now that you mention it! How do those aspects contribute to the overall aesthetic? Curator: The contrast accentuates the three-dimensionality of the scene. The geometric forms of the buildings are juxtaposed with the organic shapes of the landscape. Semiotically, we can analyze how these forms convey meanings. The buildings, through their placement beneath the cliffs, serve as motifs representing the dominance and grandeur of nature. Editor: So the structure of the artwork itself tells the story, rather than just what’s depicted. Curator: Precisely. Focus on the surface, materiality and their relational dynamics rather than the social history and you unlock what is unique and worth understanding about any work of art. Editor: That's a totally new way to appreciate it. Thank you for sharing! Curator: My pleasure. Examining it through the lens of formalism allows for a much closer observation of how formal and stylistic devices create meaning and impact.