The artwork, titled “City,” was created by Edward Ruscha in 1969 and is associated with the Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism movements. The genre of this piece is figurative.
The artwork presents an abstract yet tangible portrayal of the word “City” rendered with fluid, liquid-like strokes, creating a three-dimensional effect against a uniform, solid background. The minimalist approach, characteristic of Ruscha, underscores the essence of urban life through simplicity and the innovative use of medium and form. The viewer’s attention is drawn to the sleek, wet impression of the word, evoking the transient and dynamic nature of a cityscape. Such an interpretation aligns with the Pop Art movement’s tendency to elevate mundane elements into profound artistic statements, while also embracing the expressive freedom found in Abstract Expressionism.
