Newton c. 1795 - 1805

Curator: Here we have William Blake's "Newton," part of the Tate Collection, depicting Isaac Newton with a compass. Editor: There's a sculptural quality to the figure. He looks powerful, almost godlike, but constrained and separate from nature. It's quite a stark contrast. Curator: Precisely. Blake critiqued the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, seeing it as limiting human perception. Newton, in Blake's view, is narrowed, confined by his focus. Editor: You can see it in the way he's using the compass. It's a tool, but also a barrier. What about the material choices here? How did Blake's printmaking affect this message? Curator: Blake used watercolor and etching. His methods were revolutionary, allowing him to control color and line in unconventional ways, echoing his belief in individual vision. Editor: So, the visible process becomes part of the commentary on restricting reason? Curator: Yes, pushing against the constraints of academic art. Editor: I hadn't considered the connection between Blake's methods and the theme itself. Thanks. Curator: A pleasure to share these insights.