MAN ON ANIMAL 2011

Tal R made this print, Man on Animal, using woodcut, and it feels like a great example of art as a raw and direct conversation. The ochre and brown palette gives the whole thing a kind of earthy, primal feel. Look at the way the wood grain comes through in the print – it’s not trying to hide its process, it’s all about the tactile nature of carving and printing. The lines are bold and somewhat crude, but that's where the energy of the piece lies. Notice the cuts that define the animal's face - it's like a mask, hinting at something ancient and ritualistic. It reminds me a bit of early Edvard Munch. Both share this willingness to embrace the imperfect, to let the material speak, and to dive headfirst into the emotional depths without worrying too much about polish. Ultimately, art isn't about perfect answers; it's about keeping the conversation going.