“Composition,” created by Arshile Gorky between circa 1938 and 1940, is an oil painting on canvas measuring 152.4 by 86.2 cm. This seminal work, executed within the abstract genre, belongs to the Cubist art movement. The artwork demonstrates Gorky’s prowess in manipulating geometric forms and vibrant color schemes, characteristic of Cubism.
The artwork features an intricate array of colorful, interlocking shapes predominantly in hues of yellow, orange, black, green, and white. The composition is a synergy of curvilinear and angular forms set against a predominantly white background, offering a dynamic yet harmonious visual experience. Bold black outlines delineate various shapes, creating a sense of depth and movement. The abstract arrangement eschews recognizable figures, instead inviting viewers to derive personal interpretations from the interplay of colors and shapes. The overall effect is a vivid and thought-provoking abstraction, characteristic of Gorky’s distinctive style within the Cubist movement.