Untitled (Skyscraper and Horse) 1919

Editor: This is C. Bertram Hartman’s "Untitled (Skyscraper and Horse)," a woodcut print from 1919. I find the composition quite striking. It’s this jumble of geometric forms and recognizable images fighting for space. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Well, placing it in its historical context is key. Consider 1919, a time of rapid urbanization and industrialization. The woodcut, as a medium, allowed for mass production and wider accessibility to art. But Hartman is playing with more than just form; he's addressing the anxieties and aspirations of a society in transition. Do you see how the traditional, almost pastoral, elements clash with the imposing skyscraper? Editor: I do. It’s like the old world is being consumed by the new. Is Hartman commenting on the role of art during this transformation? Curator: Precisely! The print's style, borrowing from Art Nouveau and Expressionism, reveals the shifting artistic landscapes in the 20th century. Expressionism often explored themes of alienation and the individual's place in modern society. Notice how the black and white contrast amplifies the tension, further complicating the composition. Do you think the “Untitled” aspect reinforces this feeling? Editor: Absolutely, it lets the viewers project their own feelings onto it. Now I’m also wondering about the prominence of the horse. What is that about? Curator: The horse in art has traditionally been a symbol of power, nature, even freedom. But here, it appears almost surreal, overshadowed by the cityscape. Perhaps Hartman is hinting at the diminishing role of nature and the changing concept of power in this brave new world. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about! I now see the work as a potent snapshot of cultural anxiety during a period of huge change. Curator: Indeed. And understanding the socio-political and artistic forces at play adds layers to what might initially seem a confusing image. I’m glad you appreciate Hartman’s visual commentary on how modern life changed public sentiment.