Canto XVI: [no title] 1982

Editor: Here we have Esq Tom Phillips' "Canto XVI," a vibrant, colorful print. It reminds me a bit of a psychedelic flower. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Look closely at the texture and the printing process itself. The artist's hand, the labor, is palpable, isn't it? What social or economic narratives do you think the artist is presenting through his chosen medium? Editor: I guess I hadn't considered the material production, focusing more on the colours. So, you see it as a commentary on labour maybe? Curator: The materiality speaks volumes. Phillips is challenging the hierarchy between printmaking and painting, between craft and fine art, don’t you think? It makes you wonder about his intended audience and the cultural context of consumption. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Thanks for the insight! Curator: My pleasure! Thinking about art through its material production opens up whole new avenues of interpretation.