Plate VIII from The Temptation of Saint Antony I-XIV

About this artwork

**Plate VIII from *The Temptation of Saint I-XIV*** Created in 1989 by Tim + K.O.S., this captivating print is Plate VIII from a portfolio of 14 aquatints, drawing inspiration from Gustave Flaubert's surreal 19th-century novel *Theation of Saint Anthony*. Rollins, a visionary artist and teacher, collaborated with K.O.S.—Kids of Survival, a group of young artists from the South Bronx public school system. Their partnership transformed literary masterpieces into accessible visual art, empowering underserved youth through creative education during the vibrant, socially conscious New York art scene of the 1980s. The medium showcases innovative printmaking: aquatint etchings layered on xerographically printed chine collé—a delicate technique where thin, image-printed paper is collé (glued) onto sturdy wove Lana Gravure paper. Measuring a modest plate size of 21.4 x 13.6 cm on a larger 56.5 x 37.8 cm sheet, it exemplifies Rollins + K.O.S.'s fusion of high art traditions with democratic, reproducible processes like xerography, making complex themes of temptation, hallucination, and spiritual struggle vivid and approachable. A generous gift to the National Gallery of Art from Kathan Brown, this work highlights the cultural power of collaborative art, bridging literature, history, and community resilience. Visitors will appreciate its intimate scale and layered textures, inviting reflection on enduring human trials.