Helen Frankenthaler

In the Wings

1987

Helen Frankenthaler (1928-2011) is typically associated with, and credited for the emergence of Color Field painting.

This genre of abstraction can be characterized by pouring paint directly on the canvas or staining the surface rather than using brushes.

While this is certainly an important part of her practice, it should be emphasized that Frankenthaler was also a significant contributor to Abstract Expressionism.

We mention this to point out that some of Frankenthaler's works have more of an visual allegiance to gestural abstraction rather than Color Field paintings. This work "In the Wings" feels closer in spirit to those by Joan Mitchell, Hans Hofmann and Theordoros Stamos.

This piece, like the best of Frankenthaler's works, is realized in an unpredictable palette of berry colors, along with indigo blue and a thick crimson border. All of the colors are intensified by the pastel sky blue background.

Frankenthaler was an avid printmaker. This work, like many in her oeuvre, was created through an elaborate process using several different printmaking techniques.

This work can be found in several important permanent collections including the Walker Art Center and the National Gallery of Australia.

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"In the Wings"

Signed, numbered and dated '87 by the artist.

From an edition of 50

Published by Tyler Graphics

Intaglio, planographic colour etching, soft ground etching, sugar lift etching, aquatint and lithograph

USA, 1987

13.75"H 21"W (work)

22"H 28"W (framed)

Excellent condition

Framed with museum glass

Cat Raisonné: Harrison, P. (1996),135