“The Jewel,” created in 1959 by artist Jay DeFeo, is an exemplary piece of Abstract Expressionism rendered in oil on canvas. The abstract artwork, currently housed at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Los Angeles, California, showcases DeFeo’s innovative approach during a transformative period in modern art.
The artwork emanates a vibrant, dynamic energy through its intricate composition. Dominated by rich earthy tones, the piece features a central, radiant explosion of colors and textures. Jagged, energetic lines and layered strokes converge towards the center, creating an illusion of depth and movement. The central starburst motif, with its fragments and irregularities, evokes a sense of raw, organic formation, resonating with the abstract aesthetics of the era. The heavy application of paint and the deliberate textural variations contribute to the artwork’s compelling physical presence, inviting viewers to engage with its complex, multifaceted surface.
