Star Movement 1919

Johannes Molzahn's "Star Movement" is an abstract woodcut print with bold geometrical motifs. The symbolism here is deeply embedded in the cosmos, specifically in the star. In ancient times, stars were potent symbols of guidance, divinity, and cosmic order, representing the unchanging and eternal amidst the chaos of human existence. Consider the star's reappearance across cultures – from the guiding North Star in navigation, to the Star of Bethlehem, each star carries profound emotional weight. Even in modernity, it signifies hope, aspiration, and achievement. Its visual representation is varied from the 5-point star to more complex radial forms. Here, Molzahn renders the star as an explosive, dynamic emblem, fractured and reassembled, as if capturing the very moment of cosmic creation or destruction. The stark contrasts and sharp angles evoke a sense of both energy and tension, engaging the viewer on a primal level. The star’s essence, though fragmented, endures, illustrating its cyclical journey through time and human consciousness.