Helen Frankenthaler (1928-2011) is one of the most revered abstract painters of the 20th century in addition to being one of the most successful and collected female artists.
Frankenthaler was a key player in the evolution of Abstract Expressionism. Elaborating on techniques made famous by Jackson Pollock, specifically pouring paint directly onto (frequently) unprimed canvas, Frankenthaler led the next major movement in American abstraction: Color Field painting.
The artist was a prolific and experimental printmaker. She worked with lithography, etchings, woodcuts, and screenprints. This work, like many in her oeuvre, was created through an elaborate process using several different printmaking techniques.
If we consider Frankenthaler's work as a printmaker as a whole, her success in this realm can be attributed to two frequent characteristics; her restraint and color choices. Frankenthaler's prints are frequently less gestural than her paintings, realized with a "lighter hand" with palettes more cohesive or gentle. Frankenthaler allows shapes, washes, or wisps of color to be the dominant elements.
In 1987, Frankenthaler was invited to Juan de Muga's Barcelona studio, Ediciones Polígrafa. The artist spent ten days at the studio, creating six editioned works and the "Parets" monoprint series. Frankenthaler was drawn to the collaborative nature of printmaking, finding inspiration in the energy, connection, and fresh experiences it fostered.
"Ramblas" is a bold output from this important body of work. Named after the bustling boulevard in the heart of Barcelona, this work captures the intense, lively spirit of the iconic tree-lined street.
Set on a midnight backdrop, a series of diffused chartreuse swathes sweep across the sheet while dripping down the center of the work. The composition is framed by a striking grapefruit border, amplifying the work's dynamic energy. While this piece is unquestionably abstract, it also manifests the sensuality and the tension evocative of her best works.
Frankenthaler has exhibited internationally and is represented in numerous major collections including the MoMA (New York), the Tate (London), and the National Gallery of Art (Washington).
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“Ramblas"
Lithograph, drypoint, and etching
USA, 1987-88
Lithograph
Signed, dated, and numbered by artist, lower margin
From an edition of 75
34.25"H 27"W (work)
38"H 31.5"W (framed)
Very good condition
Published by Ediciones Poligrafa
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