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Description: One of the tests of fine art is that it appear fresh over time. For the editorial illustrator, this is a nearly impossible goal because the political and social context is constantly shifting. Printmaker Richard Mock (1944-2006) was sufficiently attuned to the culture to be able to spot the big issues--the topics that continue to matter with passing years. This linocut entitled "Kansas" was made in 1999 when the Kansas Board of Education's decision to teach only creationism in the public schools roused many from their summer lethargy. Richard Mock responded to that rather startling piece of news with this marvelous image of an American Gothic ape tending anxious chickens. Remember, in 1999 the dotcom boom was in full flower and a terrorist attack on US soil was unimaginable. In 1999, religious zealots seemed more of an amusing curiosity than a threat to thoughtful discourse; anti-scientific fundamentalism was advocated by the Taliban, not by middle-of-the-road Americans. May 2005 found Kansas once again in the headlines with a plan to teach "intelligent design" in the classroom on equal footing with scientifically proven theories of natural history. This limited edition (44 impressions) is pencil signed, numbered and titled by the artist. The image is black ink on white paper. Image size 16" X 19" on large (23" X 30") sheet. Richard Mock is represented in important collections including: Museum of Modern Art, New York Public Library, Walker Art Center and National Museum of American Art. His incisive and insightful images have appeared in publications including: New York Times, Wall Street Journal, United Nations as well as in the publications of the loyal opposition. View previous Richard Mock editorial prints including his September 11th Cycle; please note that these works may not be available for purchase. To learn more about this artist, see archived Richard Mock studio visit. |
