Circus Gallop

Artist John August Swanson (1938 - 2021)

Date1986

MediumEtching, 2 plate etching with Aquatint

Dimensions21 1/2 x 33 1/2 in. (54.6 x 85.1 cm)
Framed (Frame is brown, wired, glazed): 22 1/2 x 22 3/4 x 1 3/8 in. (57.2 x 57.8 x 3.5 cm)

ClassificationsPrintmaking

Credit LineGift of Diane Kenney '64 and DarEll Weist

Object number2026.065

DescriptionCIRCUS GALLOP captures the pageantry of the grand circus march, where all the performers gallop in on their beautiful horses. The performers, garbed in full regalia and carrying colorful festive banners, excite and prepare the crowd for the show.

The circus speaks to our sense of celebration and ritual, which can be found in all ceremonies, marches, and processions. Celebrations are held in all facets of our lives, from entertainment to religon. These ceremonies transcend language and culture to bring us together as a community.

Two color plates printed
Circus Gallop is a two plate etching. Swanson drew the patterns for each printing, directly onto copper plates, where were then dipped in acid to make space in the copper for the ink used in printing. Because the process transfers the image directly to the paper, the drawings were the mirror image of what is printed. The colors used for the printing were:

Plate A: Orange and Yellow.
Plate B: Violte Solide with Transparent Geranium, Capcino, Orient Blue, Sepia with Transparent Geranium, Vert-Clair Green, Foncee-Ochre, and Rouge Ardent (Red).
https://johnaugustswanson.com/catalog/circus-gallop/

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