1957-d no. 1

Definition

1957-d no. 1 is a significant painting by Clyfford Still, an influential figure in Abstract Expressionism. This work exemplifies Still's unique approach to color and form, showcasing his exploration of emotional expression through abstract landscapes. It plays a crucial role in understanding the evolution of modern art in the mid-20th century and highlights Still's emphasis on the act of painting as a visceral experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clyfford Still's 1957-d no. 1 features bold, contrasting colors that draw attention to the emotive power of paint and texture.
2. Still was known for his large-scale canvases, and this piece is no exception, showcasing his preference for monumental works that immerse viewers.
3. The painting reflects Still's rejection of traditional composition, instead presenting an unstructured field that invites personal interpretation.
4. In creating 1957-d no. 1, Still employed a technique that allows the paint to interact with the canvas in unpredictable ways, embodying the spontaneity of Abstract Expressionism.
5. This work is part of a series that marks a transitional phase in Still's career, where he began to focus more on color relationships rather than purely gestural marks.

Review Questions

• How does Clyfford Still's 1957-d no. 1 illustrate key characteristics of Abstract Expressionism?
  • Clyfford Still's 1957-d no. 1 embodies the essence of Abstract Expressionism through its emotive use of color and dynamic form. The painting's vibrant hues and expansive scale invite viewers to engage with it on a personal level, reflecting the movement's emphasis on individual emotional expression. The lack of recognizable subject matter allows for a pure experience of paint as an emotional medium, which is a hallmark of Abstract Expressionist works.
• Discuss the significance of color and form in 1957-d no. 1 and how it relates to the Color Field Painting style.
  • In 1957-d no. 1, Clyfford Still utilizes bold colors in vast fields that connect deeply with the principles of Color Field Painting. The large expanses of color evoke strong emotional responses while emphasizing simplicity and clarity over complexity. This approach aligns with Color Field Painting's goal to create immersive experiences through color alone, showcasing Still's ability to convey meaning through minimalistic yet powerful visual elements.
• Evaluate how 1957-d no. 1 reflects Clyfford Still's artistic evolution and its impact on the broader context of modern art.
  • 1957-d no. 1 represents a pivotal moment in Clyfford Still's artistic evolution as he transitioned from gestural abstraction to exploring color dynamics more profoundly. This shift indicates a broader trend in modern art where artists began prioritizing emotional resonance through abstract forms over traditional representation. The work not only highlights Still's unique contributions to Abstract Expressionism but also reflects the changing landscape of modern art during the mid-20th century, influencing future generations of artists seeking to push boundaries in their creative expressions.

Related terms

Abstract Expressionism:

An art movement that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, focusing on the expression of emotions.

Color Field Painting: A style within Abstract Expressionism that emphasizes large expanses of color and simple forms, often intended to evoke emotional responses.

Gestural Painting: A technique that involves dynamic, expressive brushstrokes, where the physical act of painting becomes a central aspect of the artwork.