The artwork, titled “Abraham,” was created by Barnett Newman in 1949. This piece is associated with the Color Field Painting movement and falls within the abstract genre.
In “Abraham,” Barnett Newman presents a minimalist composition characterized by a stark and simplified aesthetic. The artwork features a predominantly dark canvas with a single, vertical stripe running through the center. The use of a deep, almost monochromatic palette emphasizes the subtle gradations and shifts in tone within the field, creating a sense of depth and texture. This work epitomizes Newman’s exploration of space and his quest to evoke profound emotional responses through minimalist forms and vast expanses of color. The vertical stripe, a hallmark of Newman’s style often referred to as a “zip,” serves as a focal point, guiding the viewer’s gaze and invoking a contemplative reaction.
