The artwork entitled “Three Panels: Orange, Dark Gray, Green,” created by Ellsworth Kelly in 1986, is a prominent example of the Hard Edge Painting movement. This abstract piece features three distinct panels, each painted in a solid, bold color: orange, dark gray, and green. The artwork embodies the artist’s commitment to pure color and shape, creating a visual dialogue through its simplicity and geometric precision.
The three panels are arranged in a horizontal sequence, with each panel exhibiting a unique geometric form. The orange panel is shaped like a segment of a circle, presenting a vivid and striking presence. The dark gray panel, positioned in the center, takes on the form of an inverted trapezoid, introducing a sense of stability and balance. The green panel, on the right, is designed as a quadrilateral with slightly curved edges, adding a touch of dynamism to the composition. The overall arrangement of these panels exploits the contrasts and harmonies between the colors and shapes, illustrating Kelly’s mastery in creating visual impact through minimalistic and abstract forms.
