The Year's at the Spring 1920

Editor: We're looking at Harry Clarke's "The Year's at the Spring," created in 1920 using ink. It’s incredibly detailed! What I notice immediately is this dreamy, ethereal mood created by the intricate linework and the central figure, almost angelic, surrounded by these vibrant floral patterns. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It's truly enchanting, isn’t it? Clarke masterfully blends Art Nouveau aesthetics with Symbolist undertones here, don't you think? For me, "The Year's at the Spring" speaks volumes about rebirth, not just of nature but perhaps of the soul. The circular composition, almost egg-like, holds that promise, doesn't it? The figure within seems to act as a guardian or spirit of that renewal. Editor: The "egg-like" quality and "rebirth" makes me see a powerful cycle depicted here. I noticed the darker patterns surrounding the figure compared to the outside rim filled with flowers; can we perhaps interpret that as the struggle needed for new life? Curator: That's a beautiful reading. Clarke was deeply influenced by the Celtic Revival, and this resonates with its focus on Irish mythology and the cycles of nature. Perhaps the darkness serves to heighten the impact of the light and vibrant imagery, almost highlighting what we risk if we give up and do not nurture nature. It is as if a gentle spring rain needs to overcome dark clouds before it arrives. Do you see elements of earlier artwork like the Pre-Raphaelites reflected here? Editor: Now that you mention it, the delicate rendering of the figure is similar, as is the general romantic aura surrounding the drawing. Thank you so much, I feel like I'm really getting to know Harry Clarke. Curator: My pleasure entirely. It’s been a delight to peel back the layers with you! This has given me a new appreciation for Harry Clarke as well.