Atlantic Moon c. 1977 - 1983

Curator: This is Barry Flanagan's "Atlantic Moon," part of the Tate collections. The cool blue immediately suggests a sense of tranquility and distance. Editor: The stark contrast between the blue and the white gives it a graphic quality, almost like a poster. I am curious, how was this effect achieved? Curator: It's a print, so most likely a lithograph or screenprint, allowing for those bold, flat areas of color. Think of the labor involved in preparing the screens and the inks used. Editor: Focusing on the image itself, the crescent moon, stars, and water reflections create a beautiful, simplified composition. It is so simple! Curator: Yet, that simplicity speaks volumes about the artist's hand and the industrial techniques. Editor: Absolutely. It’s interesting how Flanagan reduces the scene to its most essential elements, creating such a powerful image. Curator: A clear demonstration of the power of accessible printmaking techniques. Editor: Indeed. It's a captivating work.