John (proof for unpublished print)
1972
Image not available — this artwork is under copyright
View on museum website →Medium
color photo-etching on wove paper
Dimensions
image: 27.31 × 29.53 cm (10 3/4 × 11 5/8 in.) sheet: 27.31 × 32.07 cm (10 3/4 × 12 5/8 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Kathan Brown
Accession Number
2014.116.14
Art Historical Context
In the National Gallery of Art's collection, Chuck Close's *John (proof for unpublished print)* from 1972 stands as a captivating example of the artist's pioneering photorealism. This intimate color photo-etching wove paper measures about 10¾ × 11⅝ inches (image), showcasing Close's signature grid-like precision in rendering a close-up portrait of his friend and fellow artist, John. As a proof for an unpublished edition, it offers a rare glimpse into Close's experimental printmaking process, blending photography's mechanical accuracy with the tactile artistry of etching. Close, a leading figu...
About the Artist
Chuck Close
Chuck Close, born Charles Thomas Close on July 5, 1940, in Monroe, Washington, overcame significant early challenges including undiagnosed dyslexia, prosopagnosia (face blindness), a neuromuscular disorder, and nephritis that sidelined him from school. Art became his refuge; he honed his skills through private lessons and live model drawing. Close studied at Everett Community College before earnin...