Bernard Brussel-Smith

American, 1914 - 1989

Explore selected works

The image features geometric shapes and lines forming an abstract composition resembling a structural landscape. Vertical and horizontal lines intersect at various angles, creating the illusion of walls, stairs, and a balcony rail, with a mesh of hatching techniques adding texture and depth. The arrangement of these elements evokes a sense of an urban construction or a cityscape, where rectangular forms suggest windows or doorways, and the angularity of the shapes brings to mind the familiarity of steps leading to a platform or an entrance.
Bernard Brussel-Smith, City Scene II, 1949, wood engraving, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1081

City Scene II

Bernard Brussel-Smith · 1949 · wood engraving ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1081

The image consists of angular shapes and lines that create a sense of depth. The composition features interlocking geometric forms resembling building facades, rectangular windows, and text hinting at an urban landscape. The arrangement of lines and shadows evokes a city street, with a star-like shape on a pole suggesting a streetlight or signage in the urban environment.
Bernard Brussel-Smith, City Scene I, 1949, wood engraving, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1082

City Scene I

Bernard Brussel-Smith · 1949 · wood engraving ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1082

The image shows a rooftop view with three cylindrical water towers with conical roofs in the distance. The horizon is not prominently visible, as the focus is on these architectural elements. The artwork uses a precise shading style, typical of monochromatic pencil or charcoal work, to create depth and texture. A building on the left bears the signage "CROSS & BROWN COMPANY FOURTH AVENUE" with a visible brick pattern and a round rooftop vent. Clouds fill the sky above, contrasting with the industrial structures. The color palette consists of shades of gray, emphasizing high contrast between illuminated surfaces and deep shadows, highlighting architectural details and the setting.
Bernard Brussel-Smith, Water Towers, 1941, lithograph, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1079

Water Towers

Bernard Brussel-Smith · 1941 · lithograph ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1079

This is a drawing of an interior restaurant scene. The drawing shows a scene within a dining establishment, framed by curved lattice privacy panels. There are clothing items like hats and coats hanging on posts. In the foreground, a person is sitting at a booth table, holding what appears to be a glass, while their head rests on their other hand. On the table, there is also a small container and an ashtray. Behind them, a group of individuals appears to be engaged in conversation. Above them, on the curved lattice panel, a cat is perched. The artwork is rich in texture and shading, revealing intricate details such as facial expressions and fabric draping, capturing a moment of casual interaction.
Bernard Brussel-Smith, Mario's, 1940, lithograph, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1080

Mario's

Bernard Brussel-Smith · 1940 · lithograph ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1080

This is a drawing of a crowded subway train. The image depicts an overcrowded subway car with individuals attempting to squeeze inside. The train door is partially open, and a person is seen pushing against it while standing on the platform. Inside the car, other individuals are compressed together, with various expressions of strain and discomfort. The number "4210" is visible on the train car, and a sign that reads "28" is in the background. A crumpled newspaper labeled "PROUST'S 1940" lies on the platform.
Bernard Brussel-Smith, Subway Crush, 1940, lithograph, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1083

Subway Crush

Bernard Brussel-Smith · 1940 · lithograph ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1083