Calendula 1931

Asa Cheffetz made this print of a Calendula, sometime in the mid twentieth century, using, I think, a wood engraving technique. Look at the radiating lines of the petals, how they build up the form through careful mark making. It’s a patient process, a real labour of love. The textures are amazing aren’t they? The velvety darkness of the background throws the flowers into sharp relief, each petal distinct, almost touchable. The leaves too, have this wonderful sense of depth and volume, like you could reach out and feel their curves. I love the way the dense clusters of lines create this rich, almost tactile surface. It reminds me a little of Dürer, but with a softer, more organic feel. It’s this combination of precision and expressiveness that makes the print so compelling. For me, it's a beautiful reminder that art isn't about perfection, but about the process of seeing, feeling, and making.