Canto XVI (1964) by Barnett Newman

Canto XVI - Barnett Newman - 1964

Artwork Information

TitleCanto XVI
ArtistBarnett Newman
Date1964
Art MovementColor Field Painting

About Canto XVI

“Canto XVI” is an abstract artwork created by Barnett Newman in 1964. This piece is a part of Newman’s “18 Cantos” series and is exemplary of the Color Field Painting movement, which is characterized by large areas of a single color or subtle gradations of color that aim to evoke an emotional response through the simplicity of form and the purity of color used.

The artwork features a dominant red field of color, creating a striking visual impact. It seems to be composed of three vertical sections with the central portion slightly differentiated in tone or texture, which is a characteristic feature in Newman’s work called a ‘zip.’ These ‘zips’ were Newman’s way of dividing the space, often giving the paintings a spatial structure without reverting to representational imagery. The contrast between the different shades of red varies subtly, drawing the viewer’s attention to the interactions between the colors and the spatial relationships they create. The margins around the red color fields are left white, which serves to frame and intensify the red, making it appear more vivid. The texture within the red fields may reveal variations in the application of paint or color intensity, invoking a contemplative mood and highlighting Newman’s focus on color and form. Newman’s signature and the date on the artwork are visible at the bottom, confirming the artist’s authorship and the period of creation.

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