Description

Magic in the Air 1 by P. Buckley Moss

Introduction

Magic in the Air 1 by P. Buckley Moss is a 2006 limited-edition lithograph featuring a young witch-like figure seated on a broomstick, her arms extended outward beneath an extraordinarily tall, curved pointed hat.

Rendered in expressive black-and-white linework, the artwork offers a gentle interpretation of familiar Halloween imagery. The figure’s flowing sleeves spread like wings, while a five-pointed star rests prominently against the dark gown.

The composition has an inviting sense of movement. Although the figure remains seated, the sweeping hat, extended arms, and horizontal broomstick suggest the possibility of flight.

Part of Canada Goose Gallery’s P. Buckley Moss Sketch Collection and Halloween subjects, Magic in the Air 1 can be purchased individually or paired with its companion, Magic in the Air 2.

Story Behind the Artwork

The two Magic in the Air compositions present related Halloween subjects through different visual arrangements.

In Magic in the Air 1, the young figure occupies the center of the composition, extending both arms in an open, welcoming gesture. The absence of a landscape allows the viewer to imagine the surrounding sky.

Its companion, Magic in the Air 2, depicts a smaller, more reserved rider accompanied by a black cat. Together, the works provide two interpretations of an imaginative broomstick journey.

The supplied gallery information identifies these as companion prints. No documented artist statement has been provided explaining their original inspiration or the precise narrative relationship between them.

Symbols & Meaning

The pointed hat and broomstick are familiar attributes of witches in European and American folklore. In Magic in the Air 1, these traditional Halloween symbols appear in a peaceful, playful setting rather than a frightening one.

The star on the figure’s gown provides a contrasting visual element. Stars are widely associated with light, guidance, and wonder, although no verified statement establishes what this particular star represents to Moss.

The open arms may suggest freedom, welcome, or the excitement of an imagined adventure. The figure’s calm expression contributes to an atmosphere of ease and curiosity.

These are interpretations of the artwork’s visible imagery, not documented statements about the artist’s intentions.

Artistic Details

One of the strongest features of Magic in the Air 1 is its dramatic use of silhouette.

The exceptionally tall hat curves upward from a broad brim, giving the figure a striking vertical presence. Beneath it, the extended sleeves create a second, wider shape, balancing the composition horizontally.

The broomstick reinforces that horizontal movement, passing behind the seated figure and extending toward the right edge of the image.

Moss’s dark pencil-like shading gives the hat, sleeves, and gown a sense of depth. Fine parallel strokes are especially visible in the pointed lower portion of the clothing, while lighter lines define the face, hair, and hands.

The star stands out against the dark fabric, becoming a small but important focal point.

The surrounding white space is equally significant. With no additional scenery, the viewer’s attention remains on the figure’s gesture, expression, and distinctive costume.

Featured Master Collections

Primary Master Collection: Childhood & Storytelling

The youthful figure, imaginative broomstick journey, and playful interpretation of Halloween imagery make Childhood & Storytelling the strongest primary assignment.

Supporting Master Collection: Gardens & Seasons

The witch costume and broomstick establish a clear seasonal connection to Halloween and autumn traditions, even though the composition contains no landscape or garden.

The artwork does not require an Animals & Companions assignment because no animal appears in this particular image. That collection is more appropriate for its companion, Magic in the Air 2.

Decorating Ideas

With an image size of 6-3/4 × 7-3/16 inches and a paper size of 11 × 8-1/2 inches, Magic in the Air 1 offers a compact format suitable for an entryway, reading nook, family room, or seasonal wall arrangement.

Its black-and-white palette works comfortably with traditional, cottage, and collected-home interiors. A simple dark frame could emphasize the strong silhouette, while a light mat could preserve the spacious quality of the composition.

For a coordinated presentation, consider displaying it beside Magic in the Air 2. The two artworks share a visual language while offering different figures, gestures, and details.

Gift Ideas

Magic in the Air 1 is an appealing choice for collectors of Moss’s sketch-style prints, Halloween artwork, and imaginative childhood subjects.

It may be particularly meaningful as an October birthday gift, a Halloween gift, or a companion piece for someone who already owns Magic in the Air 2.

Its lighthearted imagery also makes it suitable for someone who enjoys seasonal traditions without frightening or macabre decorations.

About the Edition

Magic in the Air 1 was issued in 2006 as a limited-edition lithograph, described in the supplied gallery information as signed and numbered.

Year: 2006 Medium: Lithograph Edition Type: Limited Edition, Signed and Numbered Image Size: 6-3/4 × 7-3/16 inches Paper Size: 11 × 8-1/2 inches Condition: Mint Certificate of Authenticity: Included Purchase Options: Individual print or companion set

🎨 Fun Fact:

Although witches and broomsticks are closely associated with Halloween today, the familiar image of a witch flying through the air has a much older history. One of the earliest surviving European illustrations depicting witches in flight on broomsticks appears in a manuscript of Le Champion des Dames, a 15th-century poem by Martin Le Franc. This imagery developed long before modern Halloween costumes and decorations made the pointed hat and broomstick instantly recognizable symbols. The historical connection concerns witch imagery generally; it does not establish the source of inspiration for Magic in the Air 1.

🖼️ Collector’s Insight:

What distinguishes Magic in the Air 1 is the openness of the central figure’s gesture. The outstretched arms and broad sleeves create an expansive silhouette that contrasts with the narrow, sharply rising hat and pointed lower gown. A single star interrupts the dark clothing, drawing attention toward the center of the composition. Unlike Magic in the Air 2, where the small cat introduces a companion narrative, this artwork concentrates entirely on one expressive figure. For collectors, the contrast between the two compositions offers an especially interesting reason to display them together: one emphasizes openness and movement, while the other presents a quieter shared journey.

Why Buy from Canada Goose Gallery

Canada Goose Gallery helps collectors explore P. Buckley Moss artwork through documented product information, related works, and subject-based collections.

This mint-condition example of Magic in the Air 1 includes a Certificate of Authenticity and is offered individually or as part of its companion pairing.

For additional information about authenticity and collecting, visit the P. Buckley Moss FAQ.

Continue Exploring

Collectors who enjoy Magic in the Air 1 may also appreciate these related artworks:

• Magic in the Air 2  — The direct companion lithograph, featuring a young broomstick rider and a black cat.

• October Artist Proof — Halloween imagery featuring black cats, pumpkins, and curling vines.

• Cats in a Pumpkin Painting — An original watercolor with a playful Halloween subject.

• P. Buckley Moss Sketch Prints Collection
• Certificate of Authenticity FAQ
• Canada Goose Gallery Collections Hub
• Halloween

“Imagination Gives Every Dream Its Wings.”