Here’s a wonderfully atmospheric wood block print suitable for Hallowe’en season. Technically there’s nothing about this scene that puts it on October 31, and indeed the full leafiness on the trees would imply that it’s actually earlier in the year. However, the scene still evokes the spooky season perfectly. There are low buildings against the background, but this house is isolated. A streak of pale light across the white flowers and lawn implies a full moon, but the sky is streaked with rushing clouds. The wind tosses the grass and trees with vigorous movement across the scene. The lights glow in the dark house, and the shadow of a mysterious figure is silhouetted in the doorway. This is a scene set for eerie, mysterious tales.
Made in 1926 by Howard Cook (USA, 1901-1980), this woodcut takes full advantage of the characteristics of the medium. He leaves plenty of black against which his carved lines provide texture and drama, and he allows the faint woodgrain to add to the movement. It’s quite simple, without a lot of detail, but still masterfully composed and carved.
I’ve featured work by Cook a few times before, and you can check out these previous posts:
Block Printmaker Cook
Howard Cook’s NYC
Latham and Cook
Meanwhile, there’s still one week until Hallowe’en. Time to carve your jack-o-lantern!
[Picture: Wind in the Elms, woodcut by Howard Cook, 1926 (Image from Smithsonian American Art Museum).]
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