Artist: Fritz Eichenberg
Materials: Wood engraving
Year: 1975
In this particular portrait, Eichenberg depicts himself at work surrounded by seven deadly sins. It appears that these sins seem to drive his creative process. Despite the sins; gluttony, greed, envy, laziness, wrath, pride and lust, the artist appears to be working diligently. This piece displays, in a unique way, how the negative things in life (sins) are able to drive a creative force rather than slowing progress. To me, this piece of art displays the way that our human faults can sometimes define who we are. Bad habits may lead to bad actions, but they may also breed creation. The first time I looked over this piece I felt as though something was looking over my shoulder. I think I might have even turned to make sure no one was there. After looking over the carving a couple of times I realized how many of our actions are influenced by the negative influences in our lives. I've never considered my faults as a possible force behind the positive things I've done in my life. Looking back on some of the things I've drawn, my best work was done when I was angry or thinking about something I shouldn't have been thinking about. Listening to music also helped me see the significant role our negative influences play on our creative thinking. Kurt Cobain was notorious for writing songs which originated from a troubled soul. Speaking of notorious (hehe), Biggy Smalls wrote rap lyrics about murder and the horrible things he did while trying to live with the struggles of life. These are two incredibly awesome, well respected artists whose creative passion came from something far from positive and happy.
Eichenberg is an artist known for his works concerned with religion, social justice and non violence. This particular piece does not seem to display any or his trademarks making it a bit of a stray. Eichenberg developed his anti war sentiments after world war 1. Despite the aberration I think he still managed to get his point across. I feel as though this particular piece speaks more to our creative side. It sort of encourages you to expand your horizons by considering the negative or evil side that everyone has from time to time. Don't allow it to consume you, but rather embrace it and use it to your advantage. Allow it to instill you with another perspective on art.
To be honest, I was so happy when I heard we were going to visit the art museum. Partially because I could sleep another 15 minutes, but also because I've been looking for a reason to check it out. It turned out to be much better than I had anticipated and I will for sure be returning, even if it is just to evoke creative thoughts. Visiting this art museum has caused me to want more! I will find bigger museums and run through them with an open mind.
Ethan, glad you got to sleep in AND see some cool art! ;)
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