Statue of Liberty Rising out of the Water c. 20th century

Editor: This is "Statue of Liberty Rising out of the Water" by Harry Sternberg. I'm struck by the stark contrast of black and white, and how the water seems to engulf the statue. What aspects of its composition stand out to you? Curator: Note how the artist uses the woodcut medium to create a dramatic interplay between positive and negative space. The texture evokes a sense of turbulence, almost as if the statue is struggling to emerge. Do you find this enhances or detracts from the iconic symbolism? Editor: I think it definitely adds to a feeling of unease. It's not the triumphant image I usually associate with the statue. Thanks, I see how the formal elements contribute to the meaning! Curator: Precisely. The artist uses the visual language to challenge our preconceived notions and provoke further contemplation.