Robert Ryman

The second volume of the Lambert Collection Icons series showcases the finest works of Robert Ryman, an abstract painter, and explores the creation of his paintings from compositional elements to their activation in exhibition spaces. Ryman, a minimalist painter, settled in New York in 1952 and taught himself to paint. His career spanned 60 years, during which he relentlessly pared down the essentials of painting and its emotional possibilities, focusing on exposing other elements through the use of white.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2020
Publisher: Actes Sud

The Lambert Collection Icons series presents the second installment of a remarkable collection, showcasing the exceptional artistry of one of America's foremost abstract painters. This volume delves into the intricate process of creating Robert Ryman's mesmerizing paintings, from the initial compositional elements to their captivating "activation" in exhibition spaces.

Robert Ryman, a towering figure in minimalist painting, left an indelible mark on the art world. Hailing from 1930 to 2019, Ryman's journey began in New York, where his initial aspiration was to pursue a career in jazz music. However, it was during his solitary exploration of the city's vast museums and galleries that he stumbled upon the transformative power of art. Determined to learn the craft, Ryman embarked on a self-taught painting journey, immersing himself in the study of color, form, and composition.

Spanning a remarkable 60-year career, Ryman relentlessly refined the fundamental elements of painting, unveiling the profound emotional possibilities within this artistic medium. His artistic odyssey was marked by a meticulous approach, as he meticulously applied stroke by stroke, line by line, and work by work, meticulously crafting his masterpieces.

In a revealing interview with Art News magazine in 1986, Ryman shed light on his artistic philosophy. He emphasized that his white paintings were not a mere pursuit of neutrality but rather a means of unveiling the hidden treasures within his compositions. "It was never an intention of mine to make white paintings," he stated. "The white is just a means of exposing other elements. White enables other things to become visible."

Through his profound exploration of color, form, and composition, Robert Ryman has created a body of work that transcends the boundaries of abstraction. His paintings, characterized by their pristine whites and subtle variations, invite viewers to engage with the interplay of light, shadow, and texture, creating a sensory experience that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

The Lambert Collection Icons series presents a captivating glimpse into the creative process of Robert Ryman, allowing art enthusiasts to witness the evolution of his artistic vision from the initial compositional elements to their captivating "activation" in exhibition spaces. This volume serves as a testament to Ryman's enduring legacy and his profound contribution to the world of abstract painting.

Weight: 226g
Dimension: 170 x 246 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9782330133313