The artwork titled “Tales of Genji VI,” created by Helen Frankenthaler in 1998, is a woodcut on paper. An exemplary piece of Abstract Expressionism, it stands at an impressive 119 x 106 cm. This abstract artwork embodies a fusion of textures and forms.
The artwork employs an array of organic and fluid shapes rendered in earthy tones, creating a harmonious yet dynamic composition. The interplay of tan, brown, and peach hues, along with subtle highlights of white and a single accent of deep reddish-brown, evokes a sense of natural wood grain, lending the piece both warmth and depth. The vertical striations and soft, meandering shapes suggest a serene yet complex narrative, encapsulating the essence of Helen Frankenthaler’s distinct abstract style. The woodcut medium enhances the textural aspect of the piece, allowing for a tactile quality that complements the visual experience.