Untitled

Burgoyne Diller, Untitled, 1930, ink on paper, 13 ⁵⁄₈ x 8 ¹⁄₂ in. (34.6 x 21.6 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Halley K. Harrisburg and Michael Rosenfeld, 1999.85.6

Artwork Details

Title: Untitled
Artist: Burgoyne Diller
Date: 1930
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 13 ⁵⁄₈ x 8 ¹⁄₂ in. (34.6 x 21.6 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Halley K. Harrisburg and Michael Rosenfeld
Mediums: ink
Mediums Description: ink on paper
Classifications: Drawing
Subjects: Abstract
Object Number: 1999.85.6
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1999.85.6

Artwork Description

The American Abstract Artists (AAA) group was formed in 1937 with the aim of exhibiting nonobjective art, educating the public, and encouraging dialogue among abstract artists. Among the artists who participated in AAA exhibitions and meetings were Burgoyne Diller, John Ferren, Dwinell Grant, and John Sennhauser, who shared an interest in pure geometric form and balance of color. Diller’s drawing is an example of the artist’s early austere style and interest in spatial relationships.
Unable to sell such works during the depression, Diller accepted a position as co-director of the Mural Division of the New York Federal Art Project of the Works Progress Administration, where he played an important role in the promotion of abstract art in America. While the public preferred a more readable and realist style, Diller managed to hire abstract artists for several major mural projects, including murals at the New York World’s Fair of 1939 – 1940 and the Williamsburg Housing Project.

Abstract Drawings, 2012