Lithograph21 1/2 x 29 1/2 inches (54.6 x 74.9 cm)
Edition of 75
Skylight relates to May Steven’s painting series, Sea of Words and Rivers and Other Bodies of Water, which began in
Water, which began in 1990. The images of water (rivers, lakes, lagoon, etc) are overlaid with shimmering metallic text, signifying important literary passages, memories, songs, thoughts and emotions engrained in both the heart and mind of the artist. In this lithograph, seven silhouetted figures fluidly float in motion along a shore, their presence pronounced by the surrounding water and sky. The background painted in nuanced shades of grayish blues, mauves, and whites evokes a moment of sundown, when the glowing sun subdued by the darkness of the night turns to a soft circle of amber, creating the milky purplish light. The Gold metallic writing, which is not particularly legible or meant to be, unifies the composition. Stevens is interested in the relationship between words and water, as words are a tool used to teach incoming generations while water is omnipresent.
In May’s own words, “The title refers to the gray-gold light that fills the entire space, sky and water equally. The seven figures respond to the light: they dance, play pirouette, experience the moment when they are enveloped from above, below and all around them with the wavering quavering light.” Like her words, Stevens’ images are both poetic and eloquent.
Stevens’ has made very few prints. This is her fifth print published by Mary Ryan Gallery.
In May’s own words, “The title refers to the gray-gold light that fills the entire space, sky and water equally. The seven figures respond to the light: they dance, play pirouette, experience the moment when they are enveloped from above, below and all around them with the wavering quavering light.” Like her words, Stevens’ images are both poetic and eloquent.
Stevens’ has made very few prints. This is her fifth print published by Mary Ryan Gallery.