Imagining Landscapes: Paintings by Helen Frankenthaler, 1952-1976

Helen Frankenthaler was an American abstract painter of the twentieth century who is widely credited with expanding the possibilities of abstraction through her invention of the soak-stain technique. This volume explores references to landscape in Frankenthaler's paintings over a period spanning more than two decades, beginning in 1952, just prior to her breakthrough to stain painting. It examines an extraordinary variety of gesture, from linear drawing to areas of lush, stained color and flatter, more opaque applications of paint. An essay by art historian Robert Slifkin considers the complex evocations of space in Frankenthaler's works of this period. Richly illustrated with full-color plates, details, and documentary photographs, Imagining Landscapes offers a close and detailed look at the artist's approach to painting over this twenty-five-year period.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 88 pages
\n Publication date: 07 September 2021
\n Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications
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Helen Frankenthaler, a prominent American artist of the 20th century, has garnered widespread recognition for her contributions to abstract painting. As a member of the second generation of postwar American abstract painters, she is credited with expanding the boundaries of abstraction through her innovative soak-stain technique. While occasionally incorporating figuration and landscape into her work in deeply personal ways, Frankenthaler's artistic journey is marked by her exploration of references to the natural world.

This comprehensive volume delves into the landscape references in Frankenthaler's paintings over a span of more than two decades, beginning in 1952, shortly before her breakthrough into stain painting. It examines fourteen notable works, showcasing a diverse range of gestures, from linear drawing to areas of vibrant, stained color and flatter, more opaque applications of paint. Art historian Robert Slifkin contributes an insightful essay that explores the intricate evocations of space in Frankenthaler's works during this period.

Richly illustrated with full-color plates, detailed annotations, and documentary photographs, Imagining Landscapes provides a close-up and detailed examination of Frankenthaler's artistic approach to painting during this twenty-five-year span. By examining these works, the book offers a deeper understanding of Frankenthaler's artistic evolution, her exploration of the natural world, and her lasting impact on the field of abstract painting.

\n Weight: 1138g\n
Dimension: 325 x 283 x 16 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780847871131\n \n