The aquatint etching (an art form and style of print that requires a great degree of skill) "Liberty" by Artist Peter Hickey is from a Folio of works entitled New York Winter created in 2006 as part of the artist's travels throughout the United States and later for a subsequent body of work in Europe. The Artwork is offered in a limited edition of 20 etchings and 5 Artist Proofs retained by the artist.
Peter Hickey's "Liberty," from the 2006 series "New York Winter," is a masterful example of his work, capturing the iconic silhouette of the Statue of Liberty against a vast, textured expanse of water and sky. The composition is striking in its simplicity and profound in its symbolic resonance.
The statue, a beacon of freedom [and a gift from the citizens of France...creating a link to the Atrist's next journey], emerges from a dark, brooding horizon, standing as a solitary figure against the expanse of the New York Harbor. The water, rendered in meticulous, rhythmic lines, evokes an easy sense of movement and fluidity, contrasting with the stillness of the statue.
"Liberty" exemplifies his prowess in the medium of aquatint etching, showcasing his ability to balance figurative elements with impressionistic devices and tendencies. The image is imbued with a haunting sense of tranquillity, achieved through a restrained palette of greys and blacks. This tonal restraint enhances the stark contrast between the enduring symbol of liberty and the ever-changing natural world. The artist's technique is impeccable; the fine gradations of tone and texture demonstrate a high level of skill and control. The water's surface, captured with intricate detail, is both abstract in its pattern and realistic in its depiction of light and movement. This duality is a hallmark of Hickey's work, where the boundaries between the literal and the inferred are fluid and dynamic. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Whistler and Goya. His work often reflects a deep engagement with the urban landscape, capturing its physical form and emotional resonance.
In "Liberty," Hickey's influences are evident in his use of chiaroscuro and atmospheric effects, techniques that lend his work a timeless, almost ethereal quality. Hickey's approach to etching is both traditional and innovative. He employs classical techniques to create contemporary works that speak to modern themes of isolation, resilience, and hope. The interplay of light and shadow in "Liberty" reflects his interest in the metaphysical aspects of urban life, where the built environment becomes a canvas for exploring broader human experiences. Hickey's artwork encapsulates a moment of serene contemplation, encouraging viewers to reflect on the enduring ideals of freedom and the passage of time. His work is a testament to his skill as an artist and his ability to convey complex emotions through the delicate interplay of line, tone, and texture. This piece, like much of his work and the New York Folio, invites viewers to look beyond the surface and consider the deeper narratives that shape our world.
Note:
This artwork is a single etching and is sold separately. The etching is part of a larger folio of 9 artworks, in an edition 16 of 20. The etchings are available individually (this listing) or as a complete folio. The complete folio contains 9 different artworks in total (please refer to the edition preface plate image for the other titles in the New York Winter folio).
The complete folio is available for purchase in the original presentation box as designed by the artist. Please contact the Studio for details should you wish to purchase all 9 works (the complete New York Winter folio, 2006).
- Edition: Edition 16 of 20
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