Krishna

Artist Arthur L. Werger (American, born 1955)

Date1999

MediumColor etching on paper

DimensionsPlate: 35 11/16 × 23 1/2 inches (90.65 × 59.69 cm)
Sheet: 38 15/16 × 27 11/16 inches (98.9 × 70.33 cm)
Framed: 49 3/16 × 37 3/16 inches (124.94 × 94.46 cm)

Credit LinePurchase: acquired through the generosity of the Print Society in memory of Paula N. Thoburn

Object number2000.6.2

SignedBottom margin, pencil: "Krishna 22/40 Art Werger [copyright symbol] 1999"

Edition/State/Proof22/40

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DescriptionStanding figure of a woman bather in blue water, head is above water and not visible. Her hands are cut off by lateral margins, her legs above knees cut off by bottom margin. Bather wears a brightly-colored suit (primarily orange, green, red, yellow, and purple) with a leaf pattern and flounce around the waist. The suit is reflected in the water above her (where her head would be).Gallery Label

Gallery Label

In this color etching, Arthur Werger creates a dynamic image describing the optical effects created by the reflection of a young girl's arms and head in water. At the same time, Werger uses the title of the print, Krishna, to suggest an association with the ancient Hindu god by that name and his association with the transformation of form to formlessness. It is believed that in the Vishvarupa state Krishna can take on any form in the universe. In Werger's etching, our view is directed up at the girl from underwater, and her reverse reflection gives the appearance of an extra pair of arms. She has become a Krishna-like figure. This metamorphosis of one into many is also a comment on the complexity of any one person's identity.

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