Percy Wyndam Lewis: large plate c. 1903

Editor: This is Augustus John's etching from around 1903, titled "Percy Wyndam Lewis: large plate." The detail is incredible! It has this quiet, intense feeling to it. What stands out to you when you look at it? Curator: Primarily, the use of line and tonal variation to articulate form. Notice the density of hatching around the subject's eyes and the contrasting relative smoothness of the background. How does this contrast influence your reading of the work? Editor: Well, the contrast really brings the focus to the face. The lighter background almost feels like it's pushing the face forward, emphasizing his expression. Do you see any kind of structural underpinnings in the overall composition? Curator: Yes, the subject's head is positioned almost exactly in the center of the square format. This creates a very stable, symmetrical feel. Consider how a slightly off-center placement might alter the emotional impact of the print. The slight diagonal of the head breaks it from absolute symmetry, adding complexity. Editor: I hadn't noticed the subtle angle of the head, very clever! Are there any symbolic associations to extract by analyzing it formalistically? Curator: The lack of any kind of prop or scene eliminates almost all narrative context, placing emphasis on pure perception and visual decoding. By stripping down representational elements, Augustus John makes us more cognizant of his medium. Do you see other instances of such formal paring? Editor: The simple background is what I see! Also, even the title of the artwork –"large plate" - references its material and physicality. Okay, I think I'm getting the idea now! Thanks for elucidating Augustus John's technique, focusing on what is immediately present in front of us. Curator: Indeed. We have highlighted the internal visual relations of this print. By ignoring the "aboutness" of the portrait, the formal analysis grants other access points to appreciating it.