Three Acrobats 1919 - 1920

Arthur Bowen Davies made this print, Three Acrobats, using lithography, a process that allows for a wide range of tonal variation. The velvety blacks and hazy greys create a dreamlike, ephemeral quality. With lithography, the artist draws on a stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treats the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. This allows for the rich textures we see here. Davies was deeply interested in dance and performance, portraying the body in motion with his characteristic fluid lines. The acrobats are not depicted with anatomical precision, but rather as impressions of movement and balance. Davies also created paintings, drawings, and tapestries. He experimented with different media, often blurring the boundaries between fine art and craft. This print, with its emphasis on process and materiality, reminds us that all art forms require skill, labor, and a deep understanding of materials. By appreciating the craft of printmaking, we can gain a fuller understanding of Davies's artistic vision.