Renowned American artist Frank Stella, celebrated for his groundbreaking minimalist abstract paintings, passed away at the age of 87 at his residence in New York’s West Village. According to his wife, Dr. Harriet E. McGurk, Stella’s death was attributed to complications related to lymphoma.
Acknowledged as the ‘Father of Minimalism,’ Stella held a pivotal role in reshaping the post-war art landscape in the United States. Departing from the expressive style of the Abstract Expressionists of the 1950s, Stella embraced a precise and calculated aesthetic characterized by geometric patterns, meticulous line-work, and vibrant color schemes. Influenced by his early experiences painting houses and boats in Malden, Massachusetts, Stella’s art emphasized structure over sentimentality.
Frank Stella’s Pure Form: A 1959 MoMA Exhibition Highlight
During his 1959 exhibition at MoMA, Stella’s friend and fellow artist Carl Andre remarked on Stella’s focus on the essential elements of painting, noting that his work transcended expression in favor of pure form. Stella’s approach to art was encapsulated in his famous statement, “What you see is what you see,” reflecting his rejection of overt symbolism in his artwork.
In the late 1960s, Stella introduced his iconic “Protractor” series, featuring monumental paintings of semi and half-circle canvases adorned with dynamic color palettes, evoking themes of movement and balance.
Continuously evolving as an artist, Stella delved into assemblage sculptures in the 1970s and 1980s, culminating in his recent exhibition, “Frank Stella: Recent Sculpture,” at Jeffrey Deitch New York. Employing cutting-edge 3D printing technology, Stella created a series of dynamic maquette sculptures, showcasing his commitment to innovation.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Stella remained humble, emphasizing his dedication to pushing the boundaries of his craft rather than dwelling on his legacy. He is survived by his wife, Dr. McGurk, and their five children: Patrick, Rachel, Peter, and Michael.
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