(1922–2007) is one of the most collected and accomplished artists associated with the color-field movement and 20th century American abstraction.
Possibly one of the most demanding abstract artists, his work asks the viewer to get up close and think about the conventions used by his contemporaries and predecessors active in abstraction.
Olitski experimented with different techniques throughout his career, creating a body of work that was dynamic and ever changing. One of his most radical reinventions occurred in the mid-1960s – while his contemporaries were staining their canvases or taping up surfaces for hard-edge compositions, he adopted industrial sprays. This spray technique produced minuscule droplets of vibrant color that floated like a mist on the canvas, resulting in works that were highly innovative, nuanced and distinctive.
This painting is an exceptional example from this remarkable era. The shape of the canvas, the palette and his signature ombre mist effect are united in an elegant, domestically proportioned scale.
At the time this painting was created, Olitski was arguably the leading artist of the American avant-garde. In 1966, he co-represented the United States at the Venice Biennale, followed by one man exhibitions at the Corcoran Gallery (1967) and the Metropolitan Museum (1969). Olitski canvases from this era, especially in such a radiant color, rarely come to market.
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"Wall Shikker"
Signed, titled and dated by the artist verso
Andre Emmerich Gallery inventory stamp verso
Fragment of Susan Gersh Gallery, Los Angeles verso
Acrylic on canvas
USA, 1968
77.5"H 19.5"W (canvas)
Original period frame
Very good condition.
Provenance: Andre Emmerich Gallery, New York
Nicholas Wilder Gallery, Los Angeles (acquired directly from the above)
Susan Gersh Gallery, Los Angeles
Acquired through Vesti Corporation, Boston by the present owner in circa 1983