Water Tank Hill - Boulder Dam c. 1935

Theo Ballou White created this print, "Water Tank Hill - Boulder Dam" using black ink on paper. The composition presents an imposing water tank, centrally positioned atop a stark, terraced hill, an arrangement that immediately draws our eye. The use of stark black and white contrast evokes a sense of drama and emphasizes the geometric forms. White’s strategic use of light and shadow to articulate form is evident. The graded tones suggest the curvature of the tank and the angularity of the hills. The dark, brooding sky adds a layer of intensity, contrasting with the stark white buildings at the base. This interplay serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also invites us to consider the underlying power dynamics inherent in landscape and infrastructure. Ultimately, the print challenges fixed meanings of progress and environmental impact, inviting ongoing interpretation.