Description
| Al Helds career is notable for its radical stylistic shifts, ranging from Abstract Expressionism to Minimalism. In 1967 he began his black-and-white paintings of volumetric forms in space.Rothko's Canvas (titled in homage to the painter, who died the year this mural was finished) is representative of Al Held's black-and-white paintings. Commissioned for the Empire State Plaza Art Collection, this monumental painting extends 90 feet along the wall of an underground concourse. A profusion of cubes, rectangular boxes, rings, and circles that float in an ambiguous space are depicted. The forms are defined by a clearly delineated black line against a white ground. The width of the black outline varies with each form, suggesting a changing scale and position in space. These lines manipulate the white areas so that they appear as both empty space and solid form. The painting is full of optical illusions as multiple perspectives make volumetric forms appear, intersect, and simultaneously advance and recede. The complexity and conflict provide an evolving visual narrative that leads the viewer from one end of the painting to the other. Reproduction of this image, including downloading, is prohibited without written authorization from VAGA, 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2820, New York, NY 10118. Tel: 212.736.6666; Fax: 212.736.6767; e-mail: info@vagarights.com web: www.vagarights.com |
Details
- Work Date:
- 1969-1970
- Location:
- South Concourse
- Dimensions:
- 9'-10 1/2" x 90'-0"
- Medium:
- Acrylic on canvas