Jasper Johns

Since 1960, Jasper Johns has consistently produced art in collaboration with master printers at several workshops. At the time of this gift, there were 15 prints by the artist in RlSD's collection; however, this etching proof with ink additions is unique for a variety of reasons. Numbers is a theme that Johns had explored in paintings dating back to the 1950s. Prints provided Johns with another medium to modulate the same subject. Johns had to resolve different problems when he utilized lithography to produce his number series 0 Through 9 in 1960, and others still for the etching series 1st Etchings, 2nd State: Numbers, 1967-81. This print amplifies the Museum's ability to show the artist's various ways of working, which is of interest to RlSD students.