An engaging group show of works on paper at Gallery Molly Krom, on the Lower East Side, offers more than meets the eye. Titled “Embossed,” the exhibition presents 41 works by 15 artists, on sheets that are all the same size.

The initial effect is of a white room with walls covered by multi-color rectangles of astonishing variety, in terms of design and the use of paint, ink, or anything else that can be stroked on, splashed on, or otherwise applied.

On close inspection the reason for the exhibition title gradually emerges. Each work began with a sheet of handmade paper blind embossed with a graphic pattern that’s not quite a whorl, and not quite a spiral. Each artist either went with the built-in cue or ignored it. The result is a demonstration of ingenuity, imagination, and inspiration. 

Organized by artist and curator Ky Anderson, whose Dusk Series & Editions pushes the idea of an edition to its limits, the works can be seen collectively as a selection of 77 one-of-a-kind pieces; an edition of three to five pieces each by 15 artists; or an edition of 77 by a collective of 15 artists. However you label it, the show offers an experience that expands in the process of viewing and reflection.

The reason for this stems from the fact that the artists are known to one another and to the curator, who designed the embossed pattern to be as unrestrictive as possible; for example, no straight lines, which could imply a certain order or direction. Also from the way in which the show is installed: there’s a genuine dialogue going on, with each of five group of “prints” speaking a distinctive “language” of art. 

There is much to enjoy and much to take away from time spent with the works on the walls, and the remaining 36 pieces, which can be viewed in a portfolio book.

Embossed artists include Shane Drinkwater, Brian Edmonds, Sarajo Frieden, Benjamin Gardner, Yifat Gat, J Grabowski, Molly Herman, Michael Krueger, Emily Noelle Lambert, Meg Lipke, Jason Rohlf, Mason Saltarrelli, Ward Schumaker, Vicki Sher and Debra Smith.

Embossed continues through August 16 at Gallery Molly Krom. 53 Stanton Street, NY, NY. Information. Dusk Series & Editions. Ky Anderson.