Untitled (Cubist Still-Life) 1947

Howard Fussiner created this cubist still life print using etching, a process that really lends itself to line and texture. There’s a tactile quality to this print. Fussiner has created so many different tones, almost like he's sculpting with light and shadow. Look at the upper register, where he’s built up all these layers of striations, creating a deep sense of space and light. It's a bit like Braque, but dirtier, more idiosyncratic. What is so lovely is the overall feeling of the image. The dark areas contrast with the stark white paper creating a full, rich effect and a feeling of real energy. The longer you look, the more it reveals its depth. Etching is an historical technique, but it's one that can be put to such contemporary use.