Artwork
Polarity of the Self
Polarity of the Self is a print by Clare Grossman. It dates from 2013 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Polarity of the Self is a 2013 solar plate etching by Clare Grossman, depicting a seated figure in a contemplative pose, accompanied by a small dog. The black-and-white print utilizes strong contrasts of light and shadow.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a nude woman with her back turned, conveys introspection. The inclusion of a dog gazing up at her may symbolize an aspect of self or an external perspective, hinting at the title's suggested duality within the self.
Technique & Style
Grossman employed solar plate etching to achieve a simple yet expressive image. The work showcases chiaroscuro, with pronounced light and dark areas creating volumetric forms, reminiscent of shadow play techniques.
History & Provenance
Created in 2013, the etching is signed, titled, and numbered by the artist, indicating its authenticity and placement within Grossman's oeuvre.
Context
While specific contextual influences are not immediately apparent, the piece's themes of introspection and self-duality, coupled with its use of chiaroscuro, situate it within a broader tradition of explorations of light, shadow, and the human form in printmaking.
Legacy
Insufficient information is available to assess the broader impact or legacy of *Polarity of the Self* within Clare Grossman's body of work or the wider art historical context.
Artist & collection
Artist
Clare Grossman makes prints that play with shape and shadow. In *Polarity of the Self* (2013) she turns a body into a rhythmic pattern of black and white, folding soft curves into sharp angles. The print belongs to a…
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