Sold for: $8,750

PROVENANCE
Gallery One, Toronto
Aquired from the above by the present Private Collection, Toronto

This work is a part of David Blackwood’s exploration of the International Code, a nautical alpha-numeric flag communication system. When Newfoundland joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949, the federal government required all mariners to have an understanding of this system. Though the knowledge of these master mariners was very highly prized, many still struggled. Some could not read or write, and others, such as Blackwood’s father, Captain Edward Bishop Blackwood, had little familiarity with the Code. To remedy this he created a series of cards using cereal box cardboard and wax crayons to quiz himself. Those cards can be seen as precursors of a motif that spans 20 years of Blackwood’s work.

This work is also a monotype, a fascinating aspect of Blackwood’s printwork. The media as applied to the printing plate and transferred to paper allows for one unique printed image. These monotypes allowed Blackwood the gesture and vibrancy found in his paintings and watercolours, bridging the gap between painting and printing.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars

Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.