“The Hero Leaves His Ship” is a 1960 work by the artist Grace Hartigan, part of the Lyrical Abstraction movement. The genre of the artwork is a blend of abstract and figurative elements.
The artwork exhibits dynamic brushstrokes, combining abstract forms with suggestive figures that hint at representational elements. The composition features a juxtaposition of bold and subtle strokes, primarily in black and gray tones, creating a sense of movement and evoking an emotional response. The central theme appears to depict a ship, obscured by vigorous and expressive brushwork, which invites viewers to interpret the narrative in various ways. The fluidity and energy of the strokes are characteristic of Lyrical Abstraction, aiming to convey an intense subjective experience.