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Corita Kent — a piece of good news #1
Corita Kent

a piece of good news #1

1963

Corita Kent's "a piece of good news #1," created in 1963, is a vibrant screenprint that deftly blends abstract forms with urgent, handwritten text to deliver a powerful message of human value. The composition features two large, organic shapes in deep olive-green, reminiscent of rolling hills or landscapes, set against a lighter olive-green field. A thin, undulating line of purple separates these green tones, creating a subtle horizon. Upon these earthy tones, Kent has inscribed her evocative prose in both purple and white, making the words integral to the visual experience. The interplay of color and text immediately draws the viewer into a contemplative space, inviting reflection on the profound sentiments expressed. The text itself, a heartfelt plea for universal respect and dignity, declares, "Everyone is... a very great, very important character!" This central affirmation is expanded upon with calls to "reassure one another," to listen with deference, and to cultivate "great, great hopes," particularly for the young. Kent’s words, attributed in part to "ugobetti" likely Ugo Betti, an Italian playwright whose work often explored themes of justice and redemption, resonate with a profound humanism. The repetition of "a piece of good news" at the bottom of the composition reinforces the artwork's optimistic and affirming spirit. This piece exemplifies Kent's unique ability to transform everyday language into an artistic statement, echoing her belief in the sacredness of the ordinary and her commitment to social commentary. As a pioneering figure in pop art and a socially engaged artist, Corita Kent imbued her work with both visual innovation and spiritual depth. "a piece of good news #1" stands as a significant example of her early 1960s output, a period when her distinctive style, characterized by bold graphics, vibrant colors, and integrated text, began to fully mature. Her screenprints often served as vehicles for messages of peace, love, and social justice, drawing inspiration from advertising, scripture, and contemporary culture. This particular work, with its compelling message and iconic aesthetic, offers collectors a quintessential representation of Kent's artistic vision, reflecting her enduring legacy as an artist who sought to uplift and inspire through art.

Medium
Screenprint in colors
Location
Wright, Chicago, United States

🔨 Auction Lot

Wright: 20|21 Art: The Chicago Edition (July 2022)

July 14, 2022

Estimate: $800 to $1,000

Lot 352

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About this work

Corita Kent, a piece of good news #1, 1963

Corita Kent's "a piece of good news #1," created in 1963, is a vibrant screenprint that deftly blends abstract forms with urgent, handwritten text to deliver a powerful message of human value. The composition features two large, organic shapes in deep olive-green, reminiscent of rolling hills or landscapes, set against a lighter olive-green field. A thin, undulating line of purple separates these green tones, creating a subtle horizon. Upon these earthy tones, Kent has inscribed her evocative prose in both purple and white, making the words integral to the visual experience. The interplay of color and text immediately draws the viewer into a contemplative space, inviting reflection on the profound sentiments expressed. The text itself, a heartfelt plea for universal respect and dignity, declares, "Everyone is... a very great, very important character!" This central affirmation is expanded upon with calls to "reassure one another," to listen with deference, and to cultivate "great, great hopes," particularly for the young. Kent’s words, attributed in part to "ugobetti" likely Ugo Betti, an Italian playwright whose work often explored themes of justice and redemption, resonate with a profound humanism. The repetition of "a piece of good news" at the bottom of the composition reinforces the artwork's optimistic and affirming spirit. This piece exemplifies Kent's unique ability to transform everyday language into an artistic statement, echoing her belief in the sacredness of the ordinary and her commitment to social commentary. As a pioneering figure in pop art and a socially engaged artist, Corita Kent imbued her work with both visual innovation and spiritual depth. "a piece of good news #1" stands as a significant example of her early 1960s output, a period when her distinctive style, characterized by bold graphics, vibrant colors, and integrated text, began to fully mature. Her screenprints often served as vehicles for messages of peace, love, and social justice, drawing inspiration from advertising, scripture, and contemporary culture. This particular work, with its compelling message and iconic aesthetic, offers collectors a quintessential representation of Kent's artistic vision, reflecting her enduring legacy as an artist who sought to uplift and inspire through art.

Medium
Screenprint in colors
Year
1963
Seen at
Wright, Chicago, United States

Related themes

Humanist Themes, Green Palette, Landscape Abstract, Figurative Abstract, Mixed Media Print, American, Modernist, Mid Century, Screenprint, Social Commentary, Print On Paper, Pop Art, Abstract Forms, Text Based Art, Political Art, Works On Paper, Female Artist, Earth Tones, Activist Art, Spiritual Themes, Typography Art

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