Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue II (1969 – 1970; United States) by Barnett Newman

Who’s Afraid of Red,  Yellow and Blue II - Barnett Newman - 1969 - 1970; United States

Artwork Information

TitleWho’s Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue II
ArtistBarnett Newman
Date1969 - 1970; United States
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions304.8 x 259.1 cm
Art MovementColor Field Painting

About Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue II

The artwork titled “Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue II,” created by Barnett Newman between 1969 and 1970 in the United States, is a seminal piece within the Color Field Painting movement. This oil on canvas artwork, from the series “Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow, and Blue,” measures 304.8 x 259.1 cm and belongs to the abstract genre.

The composition of the artwork is stark yet powerful in its simplicity. Predominantly featuring an expansive red field, the canvas is punctuated by a vertical blue stripe positioned slightly off-center, dividing the red into two sections. On the extreme edges of the canvas, one on each side of the blue stripe, are thinner vertical strips of yellow. The use of these three primary colors and the powerful minimalist approach create a striking visual impact, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay of color, space, and form. The composition’s bold expanses and precise lines evoke a sense of profundity and challenge traditional views on emotional expression through color and minimalism.

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