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No. 17

Vibrant blue circles and yellow accents dance across a dark void in this captivating 1964 color field painting by Washington Color School pioneer Paul Allen Reed, inviting you to explore his bold abstract legacy.

Explore Paul Reed's vibrant color field paintings! A Washington Color School pioneer, his bold acrylic works redefined abstract art. Discover 'Untitled' & more.

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Total Price

$ 272

reproduction

No. 17

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Size

-

Total Price

$ 272

Quick Facts

  • Artist: Paul Allen Reed
  • Notable elements or techniques: Blue circles with green dots, diluted acrylic
  • Dimensions: 170 x 170 cm
  • Artistic style: Color field painting
  • Movement: Washington Color School
  • Year: 1964

A Symphony of Color and Form

In the vast landscape of mid-century abstraction, few works capture the rhythmic pulse of light and shadow as intimately as Paul Allen Reed’s No. 17. Created in 1964, this masterpiece serves as a profound testament to the artist's mastery over the Washington Color School movement. At first glance, the viewer is met with a striking nocturnal atmosphere, where a deep, velvety black background provides a stage for a celestial dance of blue and yellow. The composition is not merely a collection of shapes but a carefully orchestrated visual melody, where scattered blue circles—some punctuated by delicate green accents—float like luminous orbs in an infinite void. This interplay between the dark expanse and the vibrant, saturated pigments creates a sense of depth that pulls the observer into a meditative state.

The technique employed in No. 17 reflects Reed’s pioneering spirit within the realm of color field painting. Eschewing traditional heavy textures, Reed utilized diluted acrylic paints applied directly to the canvas, a method that allowed for a luminous, almost translucent quality. This approach enables the colors to bleed and interact with a soft, ethereal edge, making the blue circles appear as though they are glowing from within rather than sitting atop the surface. The precision of the circular forms contrasted against the fluid, atmospheric application of color demonstrates a sophisticated control over both spontaneity and structure, a hallmark of his contribution to American abstraction.

Historical Resonance and Emotional Depth

To understand No. 17 is to understand the historical significance of the Washington Color School. As a contemporary of some of the most influential figures in post-war art, Reed sought to redefine how color could function as the primary subject of a painting, independent of representational form. In this work, there is no hidden narrative or literal subject; instead, the "subject" is the emotional resonance of the colors themselves. The tension between the cool, tranquil blues and the sharp, energetic yellows evokes a feeling of cosmic wonder, reminiscent of looking through a telescope into a distant nebula. It is an exploration of pure perception, inviting the viewer to experience the weight, temperature, and vibration of color.

For the discerning collector or interior designer, this painting offers more than just aesthetic beauty; it provides a focal point of profound intellectual and emotional gravity. The large-scale 170 x 170 cm format ensures that the work commands any space it inhabits, making it an ideal centerpiece for modern, minimalist, or contemporary luxury interiors. A high-quality reproduction of this piece allows one to bring the transformative power of Reed’s vision into a private sanctuary, offering a window into a world where color and light reign supreme. Whether placed in a quiet study or a grand gallery, No. 17 continues to inspire awe, serving as a timeless reminder of the beauty found in the balance of light and darkness.


Artist Biography

a pioneer of color field painting

paul allen reed, an american artist, left an indelible mark on the art world with his contributions to the washington color school and color field painting. born in 1919 in washington, d.c., reed's artistic journey began at the corcoran school of art, where he honed his skills alongside other notable artists.

artistic contributions

reed's work is characterized by its bold exploration of color and form, often using diluted acrylic paint directly on canvas. this innovative approach not only defined his style but also influenced a generation of artists. his paintings are now part of major museum collections, including the national gallery of art and the smithsonian american art museum.

legacy and influence

as the last living member of the washington color school at the time of his passing in 2015, reed's legacy extends beyond his own body of work. his influence can be seen in numerous artists who have followed in his footsteps, experimenting with color and form. recommended reading: - paul allen reed on WahooArt - greatest most famous paintings of all time featuring works by artists influenced by color field painting view more artworks: - sam gilliam: day tripper (acrylic on canvas) - arshile gorky: waterfall
paul allen reed

paul allen reed

1919 - 2015 , United States of America

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Impressionism
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
    • Post-Impressionism
    • Modern Art
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
    • Eugène Boudin
    • Alfred Sisley
    • Camille Pissarro
  • Date Of Birth: February 28, 1841
  • Date Of Death: November 30, 1919
  • Full Name: Pierre-Auguste Renoir
  • Nationality: French
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette
    • Bal du moulin de la Galette
    • Luncheon of the Boating Party
  • Place Of Birth: Limoges, France
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