Abstract image in multi-colored pigments; horizontal streak of blue across top edge; horizontal streak of orange that moves diagonally upwards to LRQ, and again moves back across bottom edge; spots of washy green; blobs of impasto at bottom C and in L

Transitional Space 9, 1969

expand_more
Not on Viewexpand_more

Jack Whitten created this dramatically gestural mixed media drawing in 1969 as part of a series of abstractions he called "Transitional Space," which is almost certainly a reference to the philosophical concept of the experiential dimension between the inner world of self and outer world of daily life. It is this “in-between space” where, according to sociologist Laura Praglin, “one finds the most authentic and creative aspects of our personal and communal existence, including artistic, scientific, and religious expression.” An avid reader of science and philosophy, Whitten frequently inserted metaphorical and conceptual references in his work as a means of signifying meaning and shaping the astute viewer’s experience. In exploring this meeting ground of potentiality and authenticity, Whitten also signals his own creative transition from the improvisational gestural abstraction of his early painting practice to his embrace of a highly distinctive brand of abstraction that stressed process, material, technique, and conceptual complexity.

Details
Title
Transitional Space 9
Artist Life
1939–2018
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2020.63
Provenance
The artist, New York; Estate of the artist, New York; [Hauser & Wirth, New York]; sold to MIA, 2020.
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Abstract image in multi-colored pigments; horizontal streak of blue across top edge; horizontal streak of orange that moves diagonally upwards to LRQ, and again moves back across bottom edge; spots of washy green; blobs of impasto at bottom C and in L
Because of © restrictions, we can only show you a small image of this artwork.