“Beside the Sea No. 18,” created in 1962 by Robert Motherwell, belongs to the Abstract Expressionism and Lyrical Abstraction movements and is classified under the abstract genre. The artwork features an interplay of bold, dynamic strokes and a minimalist approach to color, indicative of the spontaneous and emotive techniques that define Motherwell’s oeuvre.
The artwork predominantly comprises a series of vigorous blue brushstrokes that sweep across a subdued, cream-colored background. Below these strokes, there appears a layered horizontal band composed of deep purples, blues, and a touch of green, evoking a serene yet powerful oceanic landscape. The upper section includes splatters and swirls of blue paint, imbuing the piece with a sense of motion and freedom, typical of Abstract Expressionism. The overall impression is one of fluidity and natural rhythm, inviting the viewer to experience the essence of the sea through abstract form and color.
