Black and White

Lee Krasner

Created:
Movement:
1953
Abstract Expressionism
key Notes:
Abstract Expressionism, Dynamic Brushwork
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Dimensions:
76.6 × 57.1 cm (30 3/16 × 22 1/2 in.)
medium:
Oil paint, gouache, and cut and torn painted paper, with adhesive residue on cream laid paper
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Black and White" is a significant work by American abstract expressionist artist Lee Krasner, created in 1965. The painting exemplifies Krasner's exploration of form and color, utilizing a monochromatic palette to emphasize texture and composition. This period in Krasner's career is marked by a focus on large-scale canvases and a departure from her earlier, more colorful works. The use of black and white reflects a broader trend in mid-20th-century art, where artists sought to distill their work to fundamental elements. Krasner's technique often involved layering and gestural brushwork, which is evident in this piece. "Black and White" is part of a series that showcases her innovative approach to abstraction and her ability to convey emotion through non-representational forms. The painting is held in various prestigious collections, contributing to the recognition of Krasner's role in the development of American modern art.

Description of the work:

"Black and White" by Lee Krasner is a mixed media work that employs oil paint, gouache, and cut and torn painted paper, adhered to cream laid paper. The composition is characterized by a dynamic interplay of black and white forms, which are layered and juxtaposed to create a sense of depth and movement. The use of torn edges introduces a textural quality, contrasting with the smooth application of paint. The arrangement of shapes suggests a rhythmic flow, guiding the viewer's eye across the surface. The stark color palette emphasizes the contrast between light and dark, enhancing the visual tension within the piece. The adhesive residue is visible, indicating the artist's process and the physicality of the materials used. Overall, the work exemplifies Krasner's exploration of abstraction and her innovative approach to collage techniques.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Black and White