Splinter Beach 1916

George Bellows made "Splinter Beach" using lithography, a printmaking process that relies on the contrast between greasy and non-greasy areas on a flat stone or metal plate. The artist draws an image with a greasy crayon, then treats the surface so that ink adheres only to those drawn areas. The dense, velvety blacks and grays achieved through lithography give "Splinter Beach" its dramatic, almost claustrophobic atmosphere. The technique captures the gritty reality of urban life, emphasizing the swarming crowds, and industrial backdrop. Bellows skillfully uses the medium to convey a sense of immediacy and raw energy, highlighting the stark contrast between light and shadow. Lithography, as a relatively accessible printmaking method, allowed artists to create multiple originals, widening the audience for their work. In Bellows' hands, it becomes a tool for social commentary, capturing scenes of everyday life with an unflinching eye. By focusing on the materials and processes, we gain a deeper appreciation for how artists like Bellows used printmaking to engage with social issues.