Abstraction

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: Stuart Davis
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: gouache
watercolor
Mediums Description: watercolor and gouache on paper
Classifications: Painting
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