The artwork titled “Cite,” executed by Ellsworth Kelly in 1951, is a significant piece within the Hard Edge Painting movement and belongs to the abstract genre. Created using oil and wood, this work is part of the collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in San Francisco, California, United States.
“Cite” is characterized by a series of black and white bands arranged geometrically across the canvas. The composition features repetitive, alternating horizontal stripes that vary in thickness, creating a visually dynamic interplay of positive and negative space. The distinct hard edges of the shapes give the artwork a sharp, precise look, emphasizing Kelly’s focus on form and contrast. This piece exemplifies the clarity and simplicity inherent in Hard Edge Painting, with its clean lines and structured pattern inviting viewers to contemplate the relationships between shape, space, and color.