One Way 1984

Robert Cottingham created "One Way" using, it seems, a printmaking technique. The composition strikes us immediately with its sharp focus and depth. It is an urban landscape made up of geometric forms: vertical buildings, horizontal signs, and diagonal shadows. Cottingham uses light to carve out shapes. The stark contrast creates shadows that render a kind of abstract pattern; an exploration of form and structure. The signs are also of interest because they are semiotic markers, each carrying its own distinct meaning. They invite us to consider the function of signs and symbols in our culture. The materiality of Cottingham’s printmaking—evident in its textures and lines—further enhances our perception of its subject. In the end, "One Way" is not just a depiction of a city. It is an exploration of our visual and cultural landscape.