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Sam Gilliam, Swing, 1969, acrylic and aluminum on canvas, 119 5⁄8 x 283 1⁄2 in. (303.8 x 720.1 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. Edwin Janss, Jr., 1973.189
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Swing
- Artist
- Date
- 1969
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 119 5⁄8 x 283 1⁄2 in. (303.8 x 720.1 cm)
- Markings
- lower right in acrylic: Sam Gilliam '69
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mr. Edwin Janss, Jr.
- Mediums Description
- acrylic and aluminum on canvas
- Classifications
- Highlights
- Keywords
- Nonrepresentational
- Abstract
- Object Number
- 1973.189
Artwork Description
Known for inviting chance and change into his process, Sam Gilliam created Swing by folding and crumpling canvas that he had soaked in paint. Once dry, the bundled fabric was opened and hung to reveal dazzling fields of spontaneous color and pattern.??
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The title Swing reflects the swagged shape of the painting, hanging free of stretcher bars. The word also evokes Gilliam's desire to "just work and let things go," like the bebop and jazz musicians he liked to listen to while painting.?