Rancho de Taos 1954

Harry Hult made this print, Rancho de Taos, in 1954. The contrast in this print is so graphic, but it's not afraid to dissolve into a bit of soft focus by using delicate, grainy shading. I find the textures so interesting and thoughtful; it reminds me that art making is a process of layering and mark making, not just about the final image. I’m really drawn to the way Hult uses the grain of the print to create a sense of atmosphere. The dark tones of the sky contrast with the lighter areas of the church, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. It’s as though the building is glowing. I also love how the grainy texture softens the edges of the geometric forms, giving the composition an almost dreamlike quality. You know, this print has a similar vibe to some of the prints of Louis Lozowick, who was also working in the first half of the twentieth century. They both share this interest in geometry and this simplified, but also very specific, way of representing the world. It's a great example of how artists inspire and influence each other across time.