The artwork “Grape Leaves II” by Ellsworth Kelly, created between 1973 and 1974, falls into the category of sketch and study. This piece by Kelly showcases his minimalist approach, focusing on the contours and the natural form of grape leaves.
The artwork depicts a series of individual grape leaves connected by their stems in a simplistic, linear drawing. Each leaf is outlined with a smooth, continuous line that defines its unique shape, which resembles a heart. The leaves vary in size and form but maintain a consistent style throughout the piece. The composition is asymmetrical, yet there is a sense of balance achieved through the placement and angle of the leaves along the stem. The background is plain, which highlights the subject without distraction, emphasizing the elegance of the natural form Kelly has chosen to portray. The use of negative space is significant, as it juxtaposes the delicate line work and allows the viewer’s eye to fill in the volume of the leaves, playing with the absence of color and intricate details. Overall, “Grape Leaves II” reflects Kelly’s interest in the subtle interplay between shape and line, and how these elements can convey the essence of the subject matter in a refined and abstract way.
