Abstraction c. 20th century

Curator: There's a real sense of urgency in this print; the jagged lines and stark contrast give it a chaotic feel. Editor: Indeed. This is an abstract print by Margarete Köhler, simply titled, Abstraction. The central motif, a multi-pointed star, hovers against a deep, dark ground. Curator: That star, though abstract, feels loaded. Its sharp points could represent brilliance, but also potential danger. The star archetype is quite old, isn't it? Editor: Yes, stars across cultures represent guidance, destiny, even divine intervention. But Köhler's star is fractured, perhaps reflecting societal anxieties. We must consider the social climate in which this artwork was crafted. Curator: Absolutely. The visual language resonates with a sense of instability, which is common in art. Editor: It leaves me pondering about the role of symbolism in times of upheaval. Curator: And how abstract forms can hold collective anxieties.