The Geese and the Cranes 1908

Walter Crane made this illustration, "The Geese and the Cranes," at an unknown date. It's all done in this single, striking shade of red, like an old-school print, and it's fascinating how the lines weave together to create the narrative and the design. Looking at the way Crane used this coral red to carve out the forms, you can really sense the hand of the artist at work. It’s like he’s thinking through drawing, letting the story unfold as he goes. The contrast of the geese and cranes in the text compared to their illustration is an interesting choice. It's like a dance between control and letting things happen. And that brings me to thinking about Aubrey Beardsley, who also worked around the turn of the century and was a master of the black and white illustration. I think both artists invite us to let go a little, trust the process, and embrace the unexpected turns that art takes.