“Ten Colours,” created by Gerhard Richter in 1966, is an artwork that belongs to the genres of Conceptual Art and Op Art and is executed in an abstract style. Within the conceptual and op art movements, Richter’s piece presents a study in color and form, showcasing a thoughtful arrangement of ten distinct rectangular color blocks.
The artwork is composed of ten horizontally aligned rectangles, arranged in two columns of five rows. Each rectangle is filled with a solid color, offering a diverse palette that includes subtle tones such as light green, pale pink, vibrant red, muted gray, deep brown, soft yellow, teal, and cream. The careful juxtaposition of these colors demonstrates Richter’s exploration of perception, color theory, and visual impact, hallmarks of both Conceptual and Op Art. The simplicity and clarity of this grid-like composition emphasize the abstract nature of the work while inviting viewers to engage with the interaction and harmony of the colors presented.
