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Corita Kent — there is only one man in the world
Corita Kent

there is only one man in the world

1967

Corita Kent's 1967 screenprint, "there is only one man in the world," immediately captivates with its striking composition of undulating red and blue stripes. This vibrant background, reminiscent of a dynamic abstract landscape or a deconstructed flag, provides a powerful stage for the white, handwritten text that weaves across the surface. The central message, a profound quote by Carl Sandburg, asserts a universal interconnectedness: "There is only one man in the world and his name is All men. There is only one woman in the world and her name is All women. There is only one child in the world and the child's name is all children." This eloquent statement, rendered in Kent's characteristic expressive script, transforms the visual into a contemplative experience, inviting viewers to consider themes of shared humanity, empathy, and collective identity. The bold graphic quality combined with the thoughtful text exemplifies Kent's unique ability to merge visual appeal with profound social commentary. Created during a period of significant social and cultural upheaval, this work encapsulates Corita Kent's distinctive approach to artmaking, which seamlessly blended pop art aesthetics with spiritual and humanist messages. As an artist and former nun, Kent utilized the accessible medium of screenprinting to disseminate ideas of peace, love, and justice to a broad audience. The choice of Sandburg's quote aligns perfectly with Kent's overarching artistic philosophy, emphasizing unity and the breaking down of individualistic barriers. "there is only one man in the world" stands as a testament to Kent's innovative use of color, text, and form, reflecting her commitment to making art that was both visually arresting and intellectually stimulating. For collectors, this piece offers a prime example of Kent's powerful visual language and her enduring relevance, representing a pivotal moment in American art history where artistic expression converged with calls for social change, making it a significant acquisition for any discerning collection.

Medium
Screenprint in colors
Location
Wright, Chicago, United States

🔨 Auction Lot

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

July 14, 2022

Estimate: $1,500 to $2,000

Lot 350

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About this work

Corita Kent, there is only one man in the world, 1967

Corita Kent's 1967 screenprint, "there is only one man in the world," immediately captivates with its striking composition of undulating red and blue stripes. This vibrant background, reminiscent of a dynamic abstract landscape or a deconstructed flag, provides a powerful stage for the white, handwritten text that weaves across the surface. The central message, a profound quote by Carl Sandburg, asserts a universal interconnectedness: "There is only one man in the world and his name is All men. There is only one woman in the world and her name is All women. There is only one child in the world and the child's name is all children." This eloquent statement, rendered in Kent's characteristic expressive script, transforms the visual into a contemplative experience, inviting viewers to consider themes of shared humanity, empathy, and collective identity. The bold graphic quality combined with the thoughtful text exemplifies Kent's unique ability to merge visual appeal with profound social commentary. Created during a period of significant social and cultural upheaval, this work encapsulates Corita Kent's distinctive approach to artmaking, which seamlessly blended pop art aesthetics with spiritual and humanist messages. As an artist and former nun, Kent utilized the accessible medium of screenprinting to disseminate ideas of peace, love, and justice to a broad audience. The choice of Sandburg's quote aligns perfectly with Kent's overarching artistic philosophy, emphasizing unity and the breaking down of individualistic barriers. "there is only one man in the world" stands as a testament to Kent's innovative use of color, text, and form, reflecting her commitment to making art that was both visually arresting and intellectually stimulating. For collectors, this piece offers a prime example of Kent's powerful visual language and her enduring relevance, representing a pivotal moment in American art history where artistic expression converged with calls for social change, making it a significant acquisition for any discerning collection.

Medium
Screenprint in colors
Year
1967
Seen at
Wright, Chicago, United States

Related themes

Red And Blue, Spiritual Art, American, Abstract Stripes, Faith And Art, Printmaking, Graphic Design, peace movement, Figurative Text, Bold Graphics, Screenprint, Social Commentary, Collective Identity, Pop Art, Text Based Art, Counterculture, Female Artist, Activist Art, Humanist, Typography Art

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