The artwork “Coral Wedge,” created by Helen Frankenthaler in 1972, is an abstract painting that employs acrylic on canvas. This piece is associated with the Color Field Painting and Lyrical Abstraction movements, which are known for their use of large expanses of color and a free, emotive approach to painting.
In “Coral Wedge,” one observes the characteristic style of Frankenthaler’s oeuvre, where a rich, warm golden hue dominates the canvas, inviting a sense of depth and warmth. This main color is complemented by a striking wedge shape penetrating from the top, featuring a blend of white and pink, creating a stark contrast that draws the eye. This central form is highlighted by distinctive, thin lines of red descending vertically, which may suggest a bleeding or seeping effect, adding to the emotive quality of the work.
The subtlety of the color transitions and the fluidity of the shapes convey a sense of organic growth or natural phenomena. There seems to be a deliberate ambiguity in the form, allowing viewers to project their interpretations onto the artwork, which is a hallmark of lyrical abstraction. The background is not uniform; it presents variations in tone that give the artwork a dynamic and textured appearance, akin to the natural gradations found in geological formations or the delicate layering of watercolor. The artwork’s name, “Coral Wedge,” might subtly imply an inspiration drawn from oceanic elements and natural structures, yet it remains abstract enough to transcend literal interpretation. Overall, Frankenthaler’s mastery in balancing composition, color, and form is evident in the visual poetry that “Coral Wedge” communicates.
