Robert Motherwell (1915-1991) was an American painter, printmaker, and one of the prominent figures of Abstract Expressionism, a significant art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century. Here are some key points about Robert Motherwell and his work:1. **Early Life and Education:** Robert Motherwell was born on January 24, 1915, in Aberdeen, Washington. He studied philosophy at Stanford University before pursuing a graduate degree in art history at Harvard University. His academic background in philosophy influenced his approach to art.2. **Involvement in Surrealism:** While in New York during the 1940s, Motherwell became involved with the Surrealist movement and became friends with several leading Surrealist artists, including Roberto Matta and Marcel Duchamp. This influence is evident in some of his early work.3. **Abstract Expressionism:** Motherwell is primarily associated with Abstract Expressionism, an art movement characterized by spontaneous, gestural, and emotionally charged paintings. He was part of the "New York School" alongside artists like Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko.4. **Elegy to the Spanish Republic Series:** One of Motherwell's most notable series of paintings is the "Elegy to the Spanish Republic," which he began in the 1940s and continued to work on throughout his career. These works were inspired by the Spanish Civil War and are known for their stark black shapes on white backgrounds.5. **Collage:** Motherwell was also a pioneer in the use of collage as an artistic medium. He created numerous collage works that incorporated torn paper, found materials, and gestural paint marks.6. **Teaching and Writing:** In addition to his artistic practice, Motherwell was a writer and educator. He taught at universities and wrote essays and books on art, philosophy, and aesthetics. His writings contributed to the understanding and appreciation of Abstract Expressionism.7. **Recognition:** Robert Motherwell received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime, including prestigious art awards and fellowships. His work is held in major museum collections around the world.8. **Personal Life:** Motherwell was known for his intellectual and philosophical approach to art. He was married multiple times and had relationships with notable artists and intellectuals, including Helen Frankenthaler.9. **Legacy:** Robert Motherwell's work is celebrated for its emotional depth, exploration of abstraction, and its connection to existential and philosophical themes. His contributions to Abstract Expressionism continue to influence contemporary artists.10. **Passing:** Robert Motherwell passed away on July 16, 1991, in Provincetown, Massachusetts, leaving behind a significant body of work that remains influential in the world of abstract art.Robert Motherwell's art reflects his engagement with philosophy, aesthetics, and the emotional expression of abstract forms. His contributions to Abstract Expressionism helped shape the course of modern art in the 20th century.
Measures 46 x 38.

Good condition. No rips, tears, creases.