Hand and Hammer 1993

Tom Otterness’s print “Hand and Hammer” uses etching to explore labor and production. The artist has rendered a hand firmly grasping a hammer, its knuckles bulging with effort. Look closely, and you'll notice the lines are densely packed, creating a rich texture. Etching is an indirect process; acid is used to bite into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The network of lines not only defines the form, but also speaks to the labor involved in both wielding the hammer and creating the print itself. The hand and hammer are enmeshed in a web-like structure, which gives a sense of movement and energy. Otterness seems interested in the relationship between the human body and the tools it uses. In his broader practice, Otterness often engaged with themes of labor, capital, and the human condition. This print continues that exploration on a small, intimate scale, reminding us of the power and potential inherent in the act of making. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we understand the social and cultural significance of the artwork.