The artwork, named “Onement III,” was created in 1949 by Barnett Newman. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece is a prominent example of Color Field Painting, an art movement that emphasizes the use of solid areas or fields of color. Measuring 182.5 x 84.9 cm, it belongs to the genre of abstract art and is currently housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
“Onement III” is characterized by its bold simplicity and striking use of color. Dominated by a deep, reddish-brown expanse that spans the majority of the canvas, the artwork features a singular, vertical stripe of vibrant orange bisecting the composition. This central stripe, often referred to as a “zip” in Newman’s oeuvre, imparts a sense of division and unity simultaneously, guiding the viewer’s eye along its length. The textured application of paint within the stripe contrasts with the smoother surrounding field, emphasizing the deliberate, meticulous craftsmanship. The minimalistic, yet powerful, composition is reflective of Newman’s vision to convey profound meaning through simplicity and color alone, capturing the essence of abstract expressionism.
