“Berkeley #8” by Richard Diebenkorn, created in 1954, forms part of his “Berkeley” series spanning from 1953 to 1956. This abstract work, executed in oil on canvas, aligns with the Abstract Expressionist movement and measures 175.6 x 150.2 cm. Currently, the artwork is housed at the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) in Raleigh, NC, US.
The artwork is characterized by its layered, textured brushstrokes and dynamic composition of interlocking shapes and planes, evoking a sense of spatial ambiguity. The use of varied earthy tones interspersed with shades of blue, red, and orange contributes to a vibrant yet harmonious color palette. Diebenkorn’s application of paint in broad, sweeping strokes interspersed with more delicate lines suggests a balance between spontaneity and control, hallmarks of the Abstract Expressionist style. The non-representational forms and the interplay of color and shape invite viewers to delve into an abstract world, encouraging personal interpretations and emotive responses.
