The artwork “Toward a Red,” created by Sam Gilliam in 1975, is a quintessential example of the Abstract Expressionism movement. This abstract genre piece is characterized by its vibrant and dynamic composition.
The artwork features a rich, textural surface dominated by a palette of warm, fiery hues, predominantly in shades of yellow, orange, and red. The colors seem to be splattered and layered across the canvas, creating a sense of depth and movement. The composition is divided into sections by vertical lines that run through the middle, adding structure to the otherwise chaotic and organic dispersion of colors. The interplay of colors and textures invites viewers to explore the nuances of the abstract forms, embodying the emotive and expressive qualities of Abstract Expressionism.