Summernight. The Voice 1896

Edvard Munch created "Summernight. The Voice" using woodcut and lithography, combining the graphic qualities of both. Munch was interested in the textural possibilities of wood. Here, he exploits the wood's grain to bring out the raw characteristics of his chosen material. Note how the lines run vertically in the landscape. The woman is set against this backdrop, dominating the scene. The crude gouges, scratches, and hatch marks create contrast, and add visual interest to the woodblock print. The woodcut technique added an element of labor-intensive craft to what was at the time a modern medium. Munch's innovative approach broke the boundaries of traditional printmaking, by using craft-based techniques. This reminds us that "fine art" and "craft" often intertwine, enriching each other.