Alphabet B 

Editor: Here we have Erté’s graphic art piece, "Alphabet B," created with minimal colour. The starkness of the image is quite striking. The use of negative space surrounding the figure and the "B" created by the serpent is compelling. How might you interpret Erte's choice of materials and production in relation to the work's overall meaning? Curator: Looking at Erte, a key element is understanding his materials – primarily paper and ink – and his production techniques, lithography and pochoir, commercially driven methods that facilitated mass production and widespread accessibility. Consider that context. What kind of tension does that commercial drive bring into the traditional high art and craft division? Editor: I see what you mean! By embracing printmaking techniques, Erté blurred the lines between 'high art' and commercial design, making art accessible but perhaps diluting the concept of the unique artwork? Curator: Exactly. Now, think about the serpent – a recurring motif linked to both temptation and knowledge. The "B" here, constructed from this potentially dangerous figure, engages in a conversation about luxury, labor, and how images are produced and consumed in mass culture. Editor: It's like the materials themselves are part of the message, suggesting that luxury can be replicated and consumed widely! What a way to make a point! Curator: Indeed. The minimal color usage also directs the gaze of the audience to line and form of graphic art itself, which are often considered the "workingman’s medium" for disseminating knowledge across broad swathes of the public. Editor: It really underscores the point about democratizing art. Considering your point about Erte democratizing art and culture by way of more affordable, and mass producible means is really eye opening. Thanks for pointing it out. Curator: Of course. Considering the material processes involved encourages a deeper understanding and allows for the intersection of cultural values and industrialization.