The artwork, “Metamorphosis” by Andre Masson, created in 1963, is a lithography that belongs to the automatic painting movement and falls within the genre of symbolic painting. This esteemed piece is currently housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
In this artwork, a series of abstract, intertwined lines and shapes are depicted, forming a loosely structured figure that engages the viewer’s imagination through its symbolic complexity. Utilizing a muted palette, primarily in shades of green and black, the composition evokes a sense of organic transformation and fluidity, representative of its title, “Metamorphosis”. The curved forms and textured application of color contribute to the dynamic visual effect, characteristic of the automatic painting style, which emphasizes spontaneous, subconscious creation. The presence of a faint human profile amidst the abstract shapes captures the essence of change and evolution, making it a profound representation of symbolic transformation.
