The artwork “Abstraction” was created by artist Marsden Hartley in 1914 and stands as a testament to the Abstract Art movement. It embodies the genre of abstract, representing the early 20th century’s break from traditional representational art to explore forms, colors, and lines to convey impressions rather than realistic depictions.
Upon observing the artwork, one is immediately struck by the bold use of color and the dynamic interplay of geometric shapes. The composition is a labyrinth of interlocking forms, with strong diagonals and circular motifs creating a sense of movement and rhythm. The palette is robust, with hues of red, blue, yellow, and white dominating the scene, accents of black providing depth and contrast. The texture looks thick and palpable, suggesting that the paint was applied liberally, adding dimensionality to the flat canvas.
The influence of cubism is apparent in the deconstruction of form and the layered perspective. Despite lacking a clear representational element, the artwork evokes a sense of structured chaos, with each shape seeming intentionally placed to contribute to the overall balance and harmony of the piece. Hartley’s work prompts the viewer to eschew the search for figurative elements and instead to appreciate the pure aesthetic experience of form and color in relation.
