Stanley Whitney

Abrams's thoughtful book, the first full monograph on the artist, highlights Whitney's commitment to abstract painting over four decades of consistent practice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2020
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd

Since the mid-1970s, American painter Stanley Whitney has been delving into the formal possibilities of color within grids of multi-colored blocks. Matthew Jeffrey Abrams' insightful book, the first full monograph on the artist, showcases Whitney's unique and sophisticated understanding of line and color and his unwavering commitment to abstract painting over four decades of consistent practice. Abrams skillfully weaves together Whitney's personal and professional narratives to create a chronological analysis of the artist's work and his significant cultural contribution.

Born in Philadelphia in 1946, Whitney relocated to New York in 1968, where he began to explore abstraction under the mentorship of Philip Guston. Influenced by Abstract Expressionism's fundamental formal qualities, the pure chroma of the Color Field movement, and the minimalist approach of artists like Donald Judd, Whitney was drawn to the abstract realm. Despite the prevailing critical focus on figurative art and photography during this time, Whitney remained steadfast in his pursuit of abstraction, a choice that has only garnered him the recognition he truly deserves in later years.

This book serves as a testament to Whitney's outstanding achievement, highlighting his profound contribution to the art world. It sheds light on his artistic journey, exploring the evolution of his style and the themes he has explored throughout his career. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Abrams provides a comprehensive exploration of Whitney's artistic legacy, making it accessible to a wider audience. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a student of visual art, this book is a valuable resource for understanding the significance of Stanley Whitney's work and his place in the history of modern art.

Weight: 1064g
Dimension: 248 x 288 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848222519