Chicago

1959

Ray K. Metzker

Associated Names
Ray K. Metzker

Artist, American, 1931 - 2014

The image features a series of repeating horizontal rectangles formed by the abstract arrangement of stairs and shadows. Each section is visually connected by the rhythmic pattern of lines created by the steps, intersected by the walking figures' silhouettes. These abstract arrangements draw connections to the scene of bustling staircases, where people move up and down, casting shadows that create a pattern reminiscent of piano keys. The contrast between the silhouettes and the light slats gives the impression of a busy urban environment where shadows and movement converge in a play on perspectives.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Laurence Miller Gallery, Inc., New York, NY); purchased with donated funds by NGA, 1999.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1999

  • Ray K. Metzker: City Stills. Munich, 1999: 40.

Inscriptions

lower left in graphite: 59 ATF-1 3 (circled) proof; lower right in graphite: Ray K. Metzker AP1

Wikidata ID

Q64158914

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