Remembrances of Things Past c. 1935

Betty Waldo Parish made this print, "Remembrances of Things Past," with such incredible detail. It’s amazing how a simple palette of black and white can create such depth and texture. The closely-packed lines, particularly in the sky, create a sense of movement, almost like a storm brewing over the city. The density of the marks gives the print a tactile quality, you can almost feel the grit and energy of the urban landscape. Look at the way she renders the buildings; each one has its own distinct character, built up from tiny, precise marks. The contrast between light and shadow gives the city a sense of drama, emphasizing the scale and grandeur of the architecture. It brings to mind the work of other artists who were fascinated by the urban environment, like the Ashcan School painters, who found beauty in the everyday scenes of city life. Parish’s print reminds us that art is an ongoing conversation, and we’re all invited to join in.