Lambis elongata Possibly 1962

Charles Arthur Wells, Jr. made this print, Lambis elongata, using fine lines to build up form. It’s like he’s sketching with acid, embracing the unpredictable nature of the etching process. Look at the way the light catches the ridges of the shell, creating these tiny, intricate patterns. The texture is so delicate, it almost feels like you could reach out and touch it. There’s a real sense of depth, like you could get lost in its shadowy details. This reminds me of the work of artists like Vija Celmins, who also use meticulous mark-making to depict natural forms. But where Celmins aims for a kind of cool detachment, Wells brings a warmer, more intimate feel. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art is a conversation, a back-and-forth between artists across time, each bringing their unique voice to the table.