The Salute, Venice 1909

Curator: This is Donald Shaw MacLaughlan's "The Salute, Venice," a print that captures the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. My first thought is: delicate. Editor: It feels unfinished, almost dreamlike. The skeletal lines capturing the basilica's grandeur… it’s quite haunting, isn't it? There's a tension between the architectural weight and the ephemeral quality of the etching. Curator: MacLaughlan, working in the early 20th century, was deeply engaged with the aesthetic movements of his time. This work particularly echoes the etchings of Whistler, emphasizing atmosphere and tonal nuance. It also captures Venice, not as a static monument, but as a living, evolving city under constant repair. Editor: Yes, look at the scaffolding. It is such a symbol of impermanence and rebuilding. The Salute itself stands as a symbol of deliverance from plague. MacLaughlan subtly reminds us that even the most enduring symbols require constant maintenance. Curator: Precisely. It raises questions about how we perceive and preserve cultural memory, and the role institutions play in shaping that narrative. Editor: I appreciate how the print makes us consider our own fleeting presence within the grand sweep of history. Curator: It’s a poignant reminder of Venice's resilience and the enduring power of its symbolism.