Prelude I 1959

Jirí Balcar made this print, Prelude I, probably in 1959. The six squares are a good starting point for seeing how he approaches image-making. It looks like he is exploring a personal language or code of symbols. There’s a real sense of process here; the textures, the grainy blacks and greys feel immediate, like you're right there as he’s pulling the print. He isn’t hiding a thing. Check out the bottom right square. The arrow almost feels like it’s trying to escape the frame. It’s so bold, so direct, but it’s also kind of funny, because where is it pointing? Is it going anywhere? Does it need to? You know, looking at this, I’m reminded of Joan Miró. Both artists share this love of simple forms, but also this understanding that art is a playground for the mind, not some fixed thing.