Mystic Galaxy

Mystic Galaxy

Saar’s etching makes use of found objects in a relief printing process. Recalling her frequent use of assemblage and interest in Roma mysticism, the work pulls from common objects to conjure an occult atmosphere. The mottled and scratched dark background, six-pointed stars, and red moon imply the depth of the universe and astrological observations. Small plates found in a going-out-of-business jewelry shop create textural reliefs in blue, arranged in an planet-like orb. Here, Saar foreshadows her landmark assemblage Black Girl’s Window (1969) which repurposes the same sun, moon, and star symbols. Through circular windows, which Saar considers to be portals into the future, Saar’s Mystic Galaxy transcends time and space.

Betye Saar

1966

Etching with relief-printed found objects

Collection of Lewis Tanner Moore