“Anticipation” is an artwork created by artist Betye Saar in 1961. Saar, known for her work in the Feminist Art movement, created this piece using the medium of etching. The artwork embodies the aesthetic and thematic concerns of that era.
The etching presents a profile view of a seated figure, most probably a woman, portrayed with a sense of poise and contemplation. The figure appears quite elegant, donning a patterned scarf and what seems to be a sleeveless dress with floral motifs, further suggesting a connection with nature. Her expression is calm and reflective, living up to the title “Anticipation,” as if she is waiting for or contemplating something important.
The background is textured, with a patchwork of different patterns and colors, predominantly warm tones. This creates a rich tapestry-effect that complements the figure and suggests a domestic or personal environment, potentially linking the work to themes of feminine identity and interiority that are common in Feminist Art. The inclusion of flora in the figure’s hands could symbolize growth, nurturing, or fertility, tying in with the themes of Feminist Art that often focus on the experiences and symbols associated with womanhood.
