Periodic Table: Lead (Pb)

Periodic Table: Lead (Pb)

Bill Woodrow RA (born 1948)

Date: 1994
Dimensions:
500 x 430 mm
350 x 360 mm
Medium: Linocut on paper
Object number: PT1346
DescriptionSigned by artist and edition number (8/30) in pencil.

A linocut from the series entitled Periodic Table (1994). This is a portfolio of 21 linocuts on paper each measuring 50 x 43 cm. This is edition number 8 of 30. Printed by Simon King, Cumbria and published by Paragon Press, London.
Periodic Table (PT1340 – PT1363)

Each of the 21 linocuts included in this portfolio is based upon a chapter from Primo Levi’s acclaimed book, The Periodic Table, first published in 1975. Levi’s semi-autobiographical work draws upon his experiences as a chemist imprisoned in Auschwitz in 1943. Each chapter refers to an element in The Periodic Table, relating the properties of the elements to Fascist ideology. Levi's text provides the formal structure for Woodrow’s visual narrative. Each print is identified by the chemical name of the element and refers to key details within the text. The transformation of materials within a narrative structure relates this body of work to Woodrow’s sculptures exhibited as part of the exhibition, Bill Woodrow: The Beekeeper, in 2001. The portfolio later developed into a book.

(South London Gallery)