“Purple King,” created in 1996 by Kazuo Shiraga, is an artwork within the genre of abstract painting and is associated with the Lyrical Abstraction movement. The piece exemplifies the dynamic and expressive brushstrokes characteristic of this style.
The artwork is dominated by bold, sweeping strokes of rich, deep purple paint, meticulously applied in fluid, layered motions. The background is a stark white, which accentuates the luxuriant hue and texture of the purple markings. Shiraga’s technique in “Purple King” is distinctive, utilizing thick, impasto applications of pigment that create a sense of movement and intense energy. The brushstrokes vary in intensity, with some more diluted and light, creating contrasts within the composition. The interplay of light and shadow within the strokes adds depth to the otherwise minimalist presentation. The piece evokes a sense of spontaneity and passion, reflecting Shiraga’s mastery in conveying emotion through abstraction.
