In the Beginning 1931

Grace Albee started work on this wood engraving, “In the Beginning”, in 1931. I can imagine the act of carving into the wood, each deliberate mark carefully placed to build up the image. I find myself sympathizing with Albee, imagining her studio, her tools, the focus required to create such intricate details. The varying lines create light and shadow, giving depth to the three figures presenting gifts. A star radiates light from above. Is it just me, or does the kneeling figure holding the building look a little bit like it was painted by an early Renaissance master, like Giotto? Albee's work reminds me of other printmakers who explored spiritual and allegorical themes through painstaking and skilled craftsmanship. Artists are always in conversation across time, riffing off one another, and inspiring each other's creativity. Painting, printmaking - all forms of art are embodied expressions that embrace ambiguity, allowing for multiple interpretations and meanings.