The artwork entitled “Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow, and Blue III” was created by Barnett Newman between 1969 and 1970, and is associated with the Color Field Painting movement. This piece falls within the abstract genre and is part of a series of artworks that Newman titled “Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow, and Blue.”
The artwork itself is a striking example of Color Field Painting, featuring an expansive red expanse that dominates the composition. To the left edge, there is a narrow vertical strip of blue, which contrasts sharply with the predominant red hue. The minimalist approach and bold use of color exemplify Newman’s interest in exploring the emotional impact of color and the purity of visual experience. The simplicity of the forms and the intensity of the colors are characteristic of the abstract genre, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on a purely perceptual level.