A‑1961

Paul Burlin, A-1961, 1961, oil and collage on canvas, 53 ⁷⁄₈ x 60 in. (137.0 x 152.4 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., 1968.52.1

Artwork Details

Title: A‑1961
Artist: Paul Burlin
Date: 1961
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
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Luce Foundation Center
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4th Floor
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42B
Dimensions: 53 ⁷⁄₈ x 60 in. (137.0 x 152.4 cm.)
Credit Line: Gift of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
Mediums Description: oil and collage on canvas
Classifications: Painting
Subjects: Abstract
Object Number: 1968.52.1
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1968.52.1

Artwork Description

Paul Burlin was not interested in representing anything specific, and the densely textured brushstrokes of A-1961 dominate the image in broad sweeping lines, splatters, and faint scribbles of color. He reworked the canvas, adding new layers of color and form until he was happy with the overall effect. As a result, we can see ghosts of shapes floating just under the surface of the lighter colors, providing subtle hints of how the final image evolved.