Evening 1923

Anna Ostroumova-Lebedeva created this woodcut, Evening, using the graphic possibilities of black ink on white paper. Woodcut prints like this were made in Russia around the turn of the century and are associated with the revival of interest in a distinctly Russian art. Here we see a landscape under a dramatic sky. Ostroumova-Lebedeva's bold use of stark contrasts evokes the emotive impact of the natural world. But it is also important to remember that the art world of the early 20th century in Russia was undergoing significant change. As a woman artist working at this time, Ostroumova-Lebedeva was pushing against established artistic norms. What might seem like a simple landscape can also be interpreted as a quiet but firm statement of artistic independence. If you want to know more, try exploring the artistic manifestos and exhibition catalogs from early 20th century Russia which can shed light on the dynamic forces that shaped this remarkable artist and her work.