The artwork, titled “Pretty Boxes,” was created by Sam Gilliam in 1993 and is part of the Abstract Expressionism movement. It represents the abstract genre within this movement.
“Pretty Boxes” is an exuberant and dynamic composition that captivates the viewer with its intricate layering of colors and shapes. The artwork is characterized by a vibrant interplay of hues, including vibrant reds, yellows, blues, and purples, which blend and contrast to create a visually stimulating experience. Bold, sweeping brushstrokes crisscross the canvas, adding texture and a sense of motion. The piece exemplifies the principles of Abstract Expressionism through its emphasis on spontaneous, emotional expression and disregard for representational accuracy. The meticulous repetition of linear forms, juxtaposed with erratic, free-flowing splashes of paint, evokes a sense of complexity and depth, inviting the audience to engage in a personal interpretation of its abstract narrative.
