Description
Fish Anonymous, 1980
Lithograph AP Little Egypt Enterprises
Unsigned (what’s the reason for this?)
15 x 22 in. (image)
20.75 x 27.5 x 2 in. (frame)
original, includes certificate of authenticity from ArtTrust
The etching “Fish” and “Anonymous” consists of two etched pieces side by side. The left image depicts a fish enclosed in an underwater environment with birds perched above, suggesting a layered depiction of different realms—air and water. The composition emphasizes natural elements with delicate, detailed line work. On the right, a dark monolithic form rises against a backdrop of swirling textures and a large, full moon, creating a mysterious atmosphere that contrasts with the naturalistic details of the left image. The overall color palette is monochromatic, focusing on the intricate use of lines and shading to create depth.
In Zen, the duality of existence and non-existence is often contemplated. The left image can symbolize life’s ordinary experiences, with the fish representing the flow of life underwater while the birds above suggest freedom or enlightenment. In contrast, the right image, with its looming monolith and celestial moon, hints at the unknown or the void—inviting meditation on the nature of emptiness, a central concept in Zen Buddhism. Together, the images suggest a balance between the tangible world and the profound emptiness that lies beyond it.
The I Ching hexagram “Water over Heaven” (Wei Ji 未濟) symbolizes “incompletion” or “transition.” The fish swimming beneath birds may reflect ongoing growth or the continual process of life’s transformations. The monolith and the moon on the right evoke “Mountain” (Gen 艮), symbolizing stillness and meditation. Here, the images express the need for harmony between movement (fish and birds) and stillness (the monolith), representing a journey towards finding balance between action and contemplation.
The two etchings juxtapose life’s realms, from the dynamic world of nature to the mysterious, contemplative unknown. The left side portrays an ecosystem where life thrives, while the right side invites reflection on the mysteries beyond visible reality. These complementary scenes suggest that enlightenment arises not just from observing the world but also from embracing the emptiness beyond it. The composition encourages a meditation on balance: engaging with the world while recognizing the deeper, often unseen, truths.
The etchings draw upon traditional techniques of printmaking, reminiscent of works from the 19th-century Symbolist movement that emphasized mystical and existential themes. The contrasts in style between the two pieces highlight the influence of surrealism, particularly the play between reality and imagination. The organic and abstract elements echo the works of artists like Odilon Redon, who often combined natural motifs with dreamlike atmospheres, exploring themes of mystery and the subconscious.
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From the series Scrapbook, an edition of six pages and cover of individual prints by dry point etching from Little Egypt Enterprises.
“Scrapbook” was featured in his Yes Retrospective and in Sandra Jensen Rowland’s monograph, Bob Bilyeu Camblin – An Iconoclast in Houston’s Emerging Art Scene.
Reproductions of this drawing are available in multiple sizes!
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This artwork is available with a non-fungible token to ensure traceability and transparency of provenance.
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