Way Thru the Woods 1948

Minna Citron created this soft ground etching titled ‘Way Thru the Woods’. Though undated, the work reflects Citron’s engagement with social issues and her expressionistic style. Born in 1896, Citron’s journey from a small village in Russia to the vibrant art scene of New York City shaped her worldview. As a woman navigating the male-dominated art world, Citron often explored themes of identity, displacement, and social justice in her work. She once stated, "I was concerned with the human situation, man’s struggle." In ‘Way Thru the Woods,’ the simplified forms evoke a sense of mystery and introspection. The monochromatic palette contributes to the emotional depth of the work, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human existence. It is not a traditional landscape. It does not look like any woods I know; instead, the stark contrasts between light and shadow create a visually striking composition, adding to the work’s symbolic richness. Citron’s work serves as a reminder of the power of art to provoke thought, challenge conventions, and foster empathy.