“Thomas B. Hess” is a portrait painted by Elaine de Kooning in 1956. De Kooning was a notable figure in the Abstract Expressionism movement, and her work also touches upon Expressionism. This portrait, a genre commonly explored in her oeuvre, captures Hess in a style that is abstract yet recognizably human.
The artwork depicts a seated male figure that appears to be the subject, Thomas B. Hess. The painting is characterized by dynamic brushstrokes and a vibrant interplay of colors that suggest depth and form while maintaining a sense of movement and spontaneity, hallmark traits of Abstract Expressionism. The colors are primarily yellows, blues, and whites, with the subject’s figure predominantly outlined in dark lines against a lighter background. The person in the portrait is captured with a somewhat contemplative expression, seated with hands clasped together, evoking a sense of pensiveness or deep thought. The gestural quality of the painting technique adds a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity, which are key aspects of Expressionism. Elaine de Kooning’s signature is visible at the bottom right corner, indicating her authorship.
