Paul Burlin, A-1961, 1961, oil and collage on canvas, 53 7⁄8 x 60 in. (137.0 x 152.4 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., 1968.52.1
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Artwork Details
- Title
- A‑1961
- Artist
- Date
- 1961
- Location
- Dimensions
- 53 7⁄8 x 60 in. (137.0 x 152.4 cm.)
- Credit Line
- Gift of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
- Mediums Description
- oil and collage on canvas
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Abstract
- Object Number
- 1968.52.1
Artwork Description
Paul Burlin was not interested in representing anything specific, and the densely textured brushstrokes of A-1961 dominate the image in broad sweeping lines, splatters, and faint scribbles of color. He reworked the canvas, adding new layers of color and form until he was happy with the overall effect. As a result, we can see ghosts of shapes floating just under the surface of the lighter colors, providing subtle hints of how the final image evolved.