Charm of Birds: Illustration Seven c. 20th century

Editor: This is Robert John Gibbings' "Charm of Birds: Illustration Seven." It's a lovely, small wood engraving. The stark contrast between the black ink and the paper creates a very graphic quality. What stands out to you? Curator: The process of wood engraving itself is crucial. Gibbings' labor, meticulously carving away at the block, dictates the final image. The availability and cost of the materials, the wood, the ink, the paper; these factors all shape the artwork's creation and dissemination. Even the act of printing and distribution must be considered. Editor: So, it's not just the image itself, but also the history of its making? Curator: Precisely. By analyzing the materials and the means of production, we gain insight into the social and economic context in which this artwork was created and consumed. Editor: I’ve never thought about a work of art that way. Curator: Understanding the means of production helps us see art not as a singular, precious object, but as something embedded in a larger system.