The Attendant c. 20th century

Editor: This is a wood engraving called "The Attendant" by Robert John Gibbings, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The stark black and white contrast is striking. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Notice how the artist employs the woodblock to explore social dynamics through a lens of labor. The attendant's role, seemingly passive, is actively shaped by the sitter and her own consumption. The printmaking process itself allows for the reproduction and broad circulation of this representation. Editor: So, the act of creating the print is part of the meaning? Curator: Precisely! The readily available nature of prints made art accessible to wider audiences, challenging the elite's exclusive access to art and information. Editor: I see. I had only focused on the depicted scene, not the impact of the medium. Curator: Considering the means of production offers a vital perspective.