“Berkeley #7,” created by Richard Diebenkorn in 1953, is an oil on canvas painting measuring 121.3 x 109.2 cm. This piece is part of the Abstract Expressionism movement and represents the abstract genre. It belongs to the “Berkeley” series, which spans from 1953 to 1956.
The artwork exhibits a complex interplay of colors and forms. Dominated by a dark, almost black upper section, the painting transitions into areas of lighter hues, with prominent strokes of pink and brown. The composition suggests a dynamic yet balanced tension between amorphous shapes and structured elements, characteristic of Diebenkorn’s abstract expressionist style. The rough textures and seemingly spontaneous brushwork evoke a sense of depth and movement, inviting viewers to explore the layers and nuances within the painting. The overall effect is a profound abstraction that challenges conventional perceptions and provokes contemplation.