Aborigines 1972

Editor: This is "Aborigines" by Lady Mary Rennell, a print in the Tate collection. The figures seem frozen, and the sepia tones feel dated. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: I'm drawn to the process. The etching itself speaks to a specific means of production – the labor involved in its creation and the intended audience for such a work. How does the artist's social position as Lady Mary Rennell affect the subject matter and its circulation? Editor: That’s a great point. So, you're thinking about how her position influenced what she chose to depict and who ultimately saw it? Curator: Precisely. Consider the materials, the paper, the ink, and their economic implications. Understanding these elements provides a deeper context, questioning the consumption of such images and their place within a broader historical narrative. Editor: I hadn't thought about it that way. I will definitely consider the means of production and consumption more when looking at art! Curator: It adds another layer, doesn't it? Focusing on the materials and processes can reveal hidden narratives.