Milleniums
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View on museum website →Medium
woodcut
Dimensions
image: 318 x 235 mm paper: 406 x 286 mm
Classification
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams
Accession Number
2008.115.2453
Art Historical Context
Created in 1946 by Helen West Heller, "Milleniums" is a compelling woodcut that draws viewers into its layered forms and textures. Printed on paper measuring 406 by 286 millimeters, with an image area of 318 by 235 millimeters, the work reflects the intimate yet powerful scale typical of mid-century American prints. Woodcut, an ancient relief technique involving carving into wood blocks before inking and pressing onto paper, allows artists to achieve bold contrasts and dynamic lines. Heller's choice of medium highlights its enduring appeal for conveying depth and movement, qualities well suit...