Untitled 1995

Editor: This is an Untitled linocut print on paper from 1995 by Michael Brennan. The monochrome and geometric qualities create a very serene mood... What underlying meanings do you think this work possesses? Curator: I see an almost meditative quality in the repetition and stark verticality. The print’s lines might represent boundaries, perhaps alluding to those constructed within societies or even the self. Think about cultural symbols associated with lines: do they represent division or connection? How does that knowledge influence your reading? Editor: Division, definitely, that bottom strip that contains all the verticals and traps them. So do you read the varying intensity of lines almost as figures? Curator: Indeed, I am immediately drawn to how each line's distinct character affects the entire composition. Some might appear strong and definite while others fragile and ephemeral. I suggest exploring the use of vertical lines across different eras and societies to understand more deeply the artwork's symbolic underpinnings. Think, for example, of ancient temples... Editor: That's an intriguing path of interpretation! Considering temples brings another level to my perception; the light streaming in and what the boundary is defending. Thank you! Curator: And thank you. Looking at art with fresh eyes, even abstract art like this, allows one to glimpse and continuously reassess embedded, latent significance.