Circus Rider 1936

Millard Sheets created this print, "Circus Rider," using lithography. The composition immediately draws the eye to its stark contrasts and rhythmic arrangement. The near-monochromatic palette, punctuated by vibrant pink accents on the rider and horses, creates a visually striking image. The simplified forms and bold outlines distill the essence of the circus performance into a play of shapes and lines. Sheets uses a limited palette and focuses on geometric forms to explore themes of movement and spectacle. The repetition of the horses’ forms creates a sense of dynamic motion, while the rider’s pose adds a moment of balance and tension. This interplay between movement and stillness engages with the idea of representation, evoking the energy of the circus. Note the strategic use of color. The black background makes the figures pop. The white horses, tinged with subtle greens, contrast with the pink figure. This is a visual expression that reduces the subject to its core structural elements. The print presents a vibrant and dynamic visual experience.