Works on Paper

Mono Prints, Etchings & Drawings

Elena Goldberg – “Barbara Scharf’s new Mixed Media Monoprints beg one to move in closer for a better look, just as would an entomologist’s trophy tray of exotic insect species splayed out for study. 

There is also a sense of an archeologist’s passion in Scharf’s imagery, as she systematically arranges magazine cutouts with distinct particularity. These “finds” are perfectly integrated into her muted, atmospheric backgroundswith softly laid colored inks so that they blend seamlessly. One will scarcelydetect they are not each uniquely drawn by hand. The effect is delicate, a bit dreamy and very beautiful.

With an innocent elegance, this body of work conveys the same sense of amazement and curiosity a lover of the natural world, or natural history,might feel coming upon any fascinating treasure out in the field. Just like the artist’s own imagination, investigation is satisfying and discovery is thrilling.

The majority of pieces in this body of work are printed on narrow, wide sheets of paper, whose simple shape intrinsically suggest a specific process of “seeing”, in order to fully appreciate what is being offered. 

Each piece in this new series of Barbara Scharf’s monoprints feels familiar, like an old photograph recently lost and found again. There is a wide-eyed sentimentality felt here, which is genuinely irresistible and engaging. The works themselves become our own found treasures, saved and cherished for perpetuity.”