The artwork titled “From 17 Drawings by Thoreau,” created by John Cage in 1978, is a prime example of Abstract Expressionism within the abstract genre. This piece, part of a series, underscores the introspective and unconventional approach characteristic of the movement, evoking a sense of spontaneity and deliberate randomness through its composition and strokes.
In the artwork, a diverse array of lines and forms coalesces into a seemingly chaotic yet thoughtfully orchestrated arrangement. Brown, yellow, and black lines intertwine and overlap, converging at certain points and diverging at others, giving the impression of motion and organic disruption. The brown lines display a sense of texture, resembling an elongated grid pattern on the lower half of the artwork. Meanwhile, the upper portion of the piece features lighter, more dispersed linear elements, including a circular motif reminiscent of a stylized sun or flower. Subtle hints of blue and subdued green enrich the composition, adding layers of depth and variance. The overall presentation is abstract, encouraging viewers to derive their interpretations from the interplay of shapes and colors.
