Act II: The Voyage: And followed a thread of Ice 1980

Curator: Arthur Tress's "Act II: The Voyage: And followed a thread of Ice," created in 1980, presents a captivating mixed-media assemblage that blends photography, collage, and elements of sculpture. Editor: Immediately striking is the image’s theatrical quality—it resembles a stage set. The juxtaposition of materials, particularly the stark white geometric sphere against the backdrop, creates an intriguing sense of disquiet. Curator: The image’s title points to themes of exploration and pursuit. Note the fragile white threads crisscrossing the scene like tenuous connections, perhaps representing a fragile journey or the delicate nature of memory. Editor: Yes, the thread draws my eye and emphasizes line and form. The textured sphere dominates the visual field, disrupting the serene winter landscape in the background. This sharp contrast destabilizes any easy interpretation. Curator: Tress often employs symbolic imagery. The accumulation of what appear to be golf balls beneath the sphere, positioned in rows, could represent the repeated obstacles, or hazards, encountered on this metaphorical voyage, evoking feelings of entrapment and perseverance. The theater setting also provides the symbolic container in which to analyze the scene. Editor: Interesting. For me, that repetition establishes rhythm and anchors the more chaotic upper section of the composition. It is very effective, giving structure to an otherwise somewhat disorienting scene. Curator: Tress's background in surrealism likely influenced his ability to craft layered narratives. This artwork seems to beckon us to decode a hidden story, and confront our understanding of perception. Editor: I agree. Tress masterfully uses juxtaposition and unexpected elements to create tension. The collage is certainly not just decorative but creates this unease with its symbolic presence and unsettling composition. Curator: Well, viewing the artwork, one has a deeper sense of visual literacy. Editor: I feel that I now appreciate how Tress used simple geometries in his art and can use that as a building block to more art encounters.