Horn Man c. 1953

Billy Morrow Jackson created this print, ‘Horn Man’, using woodcut, a process rooted in the history of the hand-made. The stark black and white contrast is a result of the wood’s inherent qualities. The artist carves away at a block of wood, leaving a raised design. Ink is then applied to this surface, and paper pressed against it, transferring the image. The graphic quality achieved through woodcut lends itself to bold expressions. Consider the labor-intensive nature of carving the woodblock, the skill required to control the depth and precision of the cuts, and the physical effort involved in printing. This stands in contrast to industrial modes of production, and highlights the value of human skill. The image, with its swirling lines and fragmented forms, possibly alludes to the chaotic energy of musical performance, while also nodding to the labor involved in creative expression. Ultimately, ‘Horn Man’ reminds us that materials, making, and social context are crucial to fully understand an artwork, questioning traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.