Christmas Card 1955

M.C. Escher made this Christmas card out of wood engraving, creating a mesmerizing visual puzzle. Look at how the lines carve out space, defining form with rhythmic precision. The stark contrast between black and white creates a palpable tension, while the textured surface invites a tactile engagement. The figure emerges from the lines, a kind of optical illusion where the abstract becomes concrete. There’s something about the curve of the lines around the body that feels both sensual and mathematical. Now, focus on the way the lines define the figure's hair, how they swirl and converge, creating a sense of depth and movement. It's as if the hair is both part of the body and an extension of the surrounding space. Escher's interest in pattern and form connects him to artists like Bridget Riley, who also explore the way geometric abstraction can create a sense of movement and depth. In the end, art is all about embracing ambiguity, and Escher was a master of leaving us in a state of wonder.