Kiki Smith Moth 1996 Woodcut Collage and Glitter Signed Edition of 42

Artist: Kiki Smith
Title: Moth
Medium: Woodcut with Hand-Coloring, Glitter, and Layered Collage on Nepalese Paper
Edition: 31/42 (aside from 7 Artist's Proofs)
Size: 29 x 21 inches (73.7 x 53.3 cm)
Year: 1996
Inscription: Signed, dated, and numbered in pencil along lower edge: "31/42 Kiki Smith 1996" with publisher's blindstamp.
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

Kiki Smith's "Moth" (1996) exemplifies her innovative approach to printmaking, blending traditional techniques with contemporary materials to explore themes of transformation, fragility, and the interconnectedness of life. This woodcut is enhanced with hand-coloring, glitter, and layered collage, applied to Nepalese paper, creating a tactile and visually rich composition. The work measures 29 x 21 inches and is part of a limited edition of 42 prints, with this particular piece being number 31. It was printed and published by Universal Limited Art Editions (ULAE), West Islip, New York, and bears the publisher's blindstamp.

"Moth" has been featured in several prominent exhibitions, reflecting its significance in Kiki Smith's oeuvre. Notably, it was included in the Museum of Modern Art's (MoMA) exhibition "Kiki Smith: Prints, Books & Things", which ran from December 5, 2003, to March 8, 2004. This exhibition highlighted Smith's innovative use of printmaking and her exploration of themes such as the body, nature, and the cosmos. The work is also part of MoMA's permanent collection, underscoring its importance in the context of contemporary art.

Additionally, "Moth" has been exhibited at the Portland Art Museum, where it was part of the museum's collection. The piece was listed in the museum's records, indicating its inclusion in their exhibitions and its role in their representation of contemporary American art.

This work is accompanied by a Gallery Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its provenance and confirming its place as a significant example of Kiki Smith's contribution to contemporary printmaking.

About Kiki Smith

Kiki Smith (born 1954) is a renowned American contemporary artist celebrated for her innovative work across sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media. Born in Nuremberg, Germany, and raised in South Orange, New Jersey, Smith has become one of the most influential figures in contemporary art, known for exploring themes of the human body, nature, mythology, and mortality.

Smith first gained recognition in the 1980s with her sculptural and figurative works, which often addressed the female experience and the vulnerability of the human condition. Her unique approach blends traditional techniques with experimental materials, resulting in visually compelling and conceptually rich artworks that resonate with viewers worldwide.

In addition to sculpture, Kiki Smith is acclaimed for her prints, etchings, and woodcuts. She frequently incorporates layered techniques, hand-coloring, and collage to create depth and texture in her works. Notable print series include "Moth" (1996), "Hecate" (1992), and "Lilith" (1994), which showcase her ability to combine narrative, symbolism, and material experimentation.

Smith's work has been exhibited internationally in leading museums and galleries. Major institutions holding her work include the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Tate Modern. Her exhibitions, such as "Kiki Smith: Prints, Books & Things" at MoMA and "Kiki Smith: Sojourn" at the Whitney Museum, highlight her impact on contemporary art and her innovative contributions to printmaking and sculpture.

Throughout her career, Kiki Smith has received numerous awards and honors, including the National Academy of Design's Lifetime Achievement Award and the Skowhegan Medal for Sculpture. Her work continues to influence emerging artists, particularly in the fields of contemporary printmaking, figurative sculpture, and mixed media art.

Kiki Smith remains a pivotal figure in contemporary art, recognized for her inventive techniques, thematic depth, and ongoing exploration of the human experience.