Antares

Alma Thomas, Antares, 1972, acrylic on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of the artist, 1980.36.13
Copied Alma Thomas, Antares, 1972, acrylic on canvas, 65 3⁄4 x 56 1⁄2 in. (167.0 x 143.5 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of the artist, 1980.36.13

Artwork Details

Title
Antares
Artist
Date
1972
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
65 3⁄4 x 56 1⁄2 in. (167.0 x 143.5 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of the artist
Mediums
Mediums Description
acrylic on canvas
Classifications
Highlights
Subjects
  • Abstract
Object Number
1980.36.13
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1980.36.13

Artwork Description

This densely patterned monochromatic canvas conjures the intensely hot surface of the star Antares. One of the brightest and most massive stars in the galaxy, Antares earned its name—meaning, in Greek, “rival of Mars”—due to its similar appearance to the red planet.

Exhibitions

Alma Thomas, The Eclipse, 1970, acrylic on canvas
Composing Color: Paintings by Alma Thomas
September 15, 2023–August 4, 2024
Smithsonian American Art Museum
The exhibition Composing Color: Paintings by Alma Thomas provides an intimate view of Alma Thomas’ evolving artistic practices during her most prolific period from 1959 to her death in 1978.