Sam Francis Untitled, 1986 is a large-scale, mesmerizing unique acrylic on paper. Hand-painted in thick swaths of aquamarine blue, the brushstrokes form the loose form of a circle. The shades of the blue vary, from thick opaque strokes to almost transparent color. The varying shades add a sense of dimension to the artwork, making it a dynamic piece. In the center of the image is a white square which guides the eye as a focal point. Francis was devoted to the use of white space and frequently uses bold colors to enhance the original color of the paper. Indeed, viewers cannot help but notice the background and the central white color accompanying the blue form. This careful juxtaposition is something Francis is well known for. The colors contrast beautifully, creating a well balanced composition. Bordering this globular form are also dramatic splatters of paint which seem to move throughout the page.

Each turn of the paper will allow the individual splatters to give an unique and dramatic effect. This technique is akin to what is called "action painting". Action painting originated with abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock and remains one of the most expressive uses of paint. Francis , himself an abstract expressionist, was also inspired by Pollock's confrontational use of paint and color. Furthermore, Francis was a staunch believer in Jungian psychology. This led to a revival of automatism in painting and enabled the artist to express his subconscious desires through paint. Here, we see these influences coming into fruition.

Created in 1986, this unique original acrylic on paper is hand-signed by Sam Francis (San Mateo, 1923- Santa Monica, 1994) on the verso.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

1. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork

About the Framing:
Sam Francis Untitled, 1986 is framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, presented in a complimentary moulding and finished with silk-wrapped mats and optical grade Plexiglas.