Parnel and Katie O'Shea 1936

Kyra Markham made this print, Parnel and Katie O'Shea, in 1936. The somber tones and tight hatching give this scene a real intensity and drama. I imagine Markham building up the image slowly, etching each mark with precision and care. This is a world of strong contrasts, where light and shadow dance across the figures and interior, creating a sense of depth and mystery. The way the figures are enveloped in shadow—you can almost feel Markham’s own emotional investment. It's as if the artist is wrestling with some unspoken tension between the figures. Look at how their gaze is directed, away from each other, into the distance! I keep thinking about other printmakers like Käthe Kollwitz, who also used the medium to explore themes of human suffering and resilience. Artists are always in conversation with one another, building upon the ideas and techniques of those who came before. Here, Markham continues that dialogue, using the language of etching to create a powerful and evocative image. It's not just about what we see, but how it makes us feel.