Acrylic — First Open: Post-War & Contemporary Art Online
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Samuel Lewis Francis, an American painter and printmaker, was known for his pivotal role in postwar American painting and his contributions to the Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting movements. Born in San Mateo, California, Francis' early life was marked by a deep personal loss and a significant injury during his service in the Army Air Corps, which led him to pursue painting while recovering in a hospital. His work, characterized by splashes of bright contrasting colors against expansive white canvases, drew international acclaim, particularly in Europe and Japan, underscoring his influence on the global art scene.
Francis' art evolved through various phases, from monochromatic works to vibrant, large-scale pieces, and was deeply influenced by his time in Paris and Japan, reflecting elements of Tachisme and possibly Zen Buddhism. Notable for creating large murals and his "Edge" series, Francis also founded The Lapis Press, further contributing to the art community by producing visually compelling texts. Despite facing health challenges towards the end of his life, he remained prolific, leaving behind a legacy celebrated through the Sam Francis Foundation, which aims to perpetuate his creative legacy.
Francis' artworks are held in prestigious collections worldwide, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the Centre Pompidou-Musee National d'Art Moderne, Paris, highlighting his enduring influence on contemporary art. His auction records and continued recognition in solo exhibitions posthumously underscore the lasting impact of his work on both collectors and the art community.
For those passionate about modern art and its history, staying informed about Samuel Lewis Francis' contributions and the ongoing exhibitions of his works can be enriching. Sign up for updates related to Francis to ensure you don't miss out on new sales and auction events showcasing his vibrant legacy.
Armand Pierre Fernandez, widely known by his mononym Arman, was a French-born American artist celebrated for his innovative contributions to the Nouveau Réalisme movement and his radical use of everyday objects in art. Born in Nice, France, on November 17, 1928, Arman's early exposure to art came from his father, an antiques dealer and amateur artist, which deeply influenced his later artistic endeavors.
Arman moved beyond traditional painting techniques early in his career, instead creating his signature "Accumulations" and "Poubelles" (trash) sculptures. These works involved assembling and compacting everyday items like watches, clocks, and even automobiles, embedding these objects in layers of concrete or encasing them in Plexiglas. One of his most notable large-scale works is "Long Term Parking," a 60-foot high sculpture made of concrete-encased cars, situated in Jouy-en-Josas, France.
His work is an essential bridge between European and American trends in Pop art and has been widely exhibited in major institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Tate Gallery in London, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Arman's innovative techniques and philosophical approach to materials challenged conventional categorizations of art and inspired future generations of artists.
For collectors and enthusiasts interested in staying updated on exhibitions and sales related to Arman's work, signing up for updates can provide essential insights and opportunities related to this influential artist. Join our community to ensure you don't miss out on new discoveries and auction events associated with Arman's legacy.
