Abstraction

Stuart Davis, Abstraction, 1937, watercolor and gouache on paper, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the General Services Administration, 1972.81
Copied Stuart Davis, Abstraction, 1937, watercolor and gouache on paper, sheet: 17 7⁄8 x 23 3⁄8 in. (45.4 x 59.4 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the General Services Administration, 1972.81

Artwork Details

Title
Abstraction
Artist
Date
1937
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
sheet: 17 7⁄8 x 23 3⁄8 in. (45.4 x 59.4 cm)
Credit Line
Transfer from the General Services Administration
Mediums
Mediums Description
watercolor and gouache on paper
Classifications
Subjects
  • Abstract
Object Number
1972.81
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1972.81

Artwork Description

Davis’s abstract compositions contain many references to his experiences and observations. He said, “Some of the things which have made me want to paint, outside of other paintings, are: American wood and iron work of the past; Civil War and skyscraper architecture; the brilliant colors on gasoline stations, chain-store fronts and taxicabs; the music of Bach; synthetic chemistry; the poetry of Rimbaud; fast travel by train, auto and airplane which brought new and multiple perspectives; electric signs; the landscape and boats of Gloucester, Mass.; five-and-ten-cent-store kitchen utensils; movies and radio’ Earl Hines’ hot piano and Negro jazz music in general.”

Graphic Masters II: Highlights from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, 2009