The artwork, titled “Seated Nude, Black Background,” is a notable piece by Richard Diebenkorn, created in 1961. This expressionist oil painting on canvas measures 213.4 x 137.2 cm and belongs to the genre of nude painting (nu). Currently held in a private collection, it exemplifies the emotive and stylistic qualities inherent in Diebenkorn’s work within the Expressionism movement.
In this captivating artwork, the figure of a nude individual is seated against a stark, black backdrop, which contrasts with the vibrant and expressive brushstrokes that define the subject and surroundings. The use of bold, layered applications of paint, along with the interplay of light and shadow, creates a palpable tension and depth within the composition. The chair in which the figure is seated, rendered in dynamic strokes of yellow and blue, adds to the striking visual impact. The figure’s pose, with one arm raised above their head, introduces a sense of movement and intimacy. The abstracted, almost raw application of color and form illustrates the emotional intensity characteristic of Diebenkorn’s work, contributing to the overall evocative power of the painting.
