Green Angel 2 [trial proof III] 1997

This is Jasper John’s "Green Angel 2", a trial proof print made through etching and aquatint. These techniques are deeply rooted in skilled traditions, involving laborious processes of applying acid to a metal plate to create an image. The plate is then inked and printed onto paper, a process that requires significant expertise and physical labor. Look at the ways in which the material and processes influence the appearance of the artwork. The etched lines and aquatint create a rich texture and depth, with subtle variations in tone and shade. These processes have imbued the artwork with social and cultural significance. The work is not a painting, not a sculpture, but a multiple, made through largely industrialized means. It raises questions about originality, labor, politics, and consumption. By focusing on the materials, making, and context, we can fully understand the meaning of "Green Angel 2," challenging distinctions between fine art and craft.