St. Martin's 1887

Joseph Pennell created this etching titled 'St. Martin's'. Pennell, an American expatriate, made the print to capture the grandeur of London's urban architecture. This artwork transports us to the bustling streets of London. The scene reflects the layered societal structures of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where class distinctions were visibly etched into the urban landscape. We see the magnificent St. Martin's Church looming in the background. The church and classical architecture stand as symbols of power and tradition. Pennell's choice to focus on the architecture, rather than any particular individual, creates an interesting tension. Pennell once said, "An artist is only concerned with the emotional value which the spectator can get from art." It begs us to think about who gets access to these spaces. In his work, Pennell highlights the societal and cultural values embedded in architectural forms. He reminds us of the complex ways in which art reflects, shapes, and is shaped by society.