“Water of the Flowery Mill” is an abstract expressionist artwork by Arshile Gorky, created in 1944. This painting is executed in oil on canvas and can be found in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. As an abstract piece, it belongs to the genre of abstract art which emerged during the movements focused on expression and internal reflection.
The painting itself is characterized by a vivid interplay of colors and forms. Bright hues of yellow, red, and orange dominate the canvas, punctured by patches of blue, black, and white. The composition is fluid, suggesting movement and organic shapes merging with each other. While there is no clear representation of specific objects or figures, the arrangement of shapes and colors creates a dynamic atmosphere that can evoke different emotions or associations in the viewer. The title might suggest a connection to a natural setting, like a mill by the water. However, the abstraction allows for a wide range of interpretations, highlighting Gorky’s ability to transform direct observations into a complex, layered visual language.
