Two Apples, 1982: Woodcut on paper by Roy Lichtenstein

Two Apples, 1982 is a woodcut by Roy Lichtenstein from the Seven Apple Woodcuts series, where the artist reinterprets the traditional still life using bold brushstrokes and simplified forms. The composition centres on two apples surrounded by sweeping black and white gestural strokes that create movement across the surface of the print. These energetic marks frame the fruit while emphasising the expressive quality of the woodcut technique.

 

To the left, a green apple lies on its side with the stem pointing toward the edge of the page. The fruit is defined by a long green brushstroke, with a smaller royal blue stroke behind it that adds depth to the composition. On the right, a second apple stands upright with its stem pointing upward and a green brushstroke suggesting a leaf. This apple is coloured with a red brushstroke and a yellow mark across its centre, creating a vibrant contrast against the surrounding monochrome strokes. Through this restrained yet dynamic arrangement, Lichtenstein transforms a simple still life subject into a bold exploration of colour, gesture and graphic form.