Joseph Conrad, No. 3 1931

Walter Tittle made this print of Joseph Conrad using etching, a process where the artist manipulates a metal plate with acid to create an image. Look closely, and you’ll see the fine, delicate lines that define Conrad’s face and form. For me, this work is about mark-making as a process, a kind of slow building of an image. The details in Conrad's face are incredible. Tittle captures the weight of his brow, the depth of his gaze. Notice the way the etched lines build up around his eyes, creating a sense of shadow and intensity. The texture of the paper itself becomes part of the image, the slight toothiness adding to the overall effect. Each line feels intentional, a small contribution to a larger whole. It reminds me of the way Agnes Martin would build up her grids, each line both separate and integral. Ultimately, art is a conversation. Tittle looks to the literary genius, Conrad, just like we look to Tittle. It's all connected.