Kenneth Noland

Kenneth Noland was a major force in Color Field painting. Think "Noland's Notions" to remember his art:

• Style: Pure, non-objective abstraction. He sought to eliminate any illusion of depth and focus solely on the interaction of color and the canvas.
• Key Characteristics:
  • Geometric Shapes: Concentric circles (targets), chevrons, and horizontal stripes were his signature forms.
  • Thinly Applied Paint: Stained directly into the canvas, creating a unified surface with no brushstrokes.
  • Emphasis on Color: Radiant, high-keyed colors were used to evoke emotional responses.
  • Large-Scale Canvases: His work often demanded a full bodily experience from the viewer.
• Themes: Primarily concerned with formal issues of color, shape, and space. Noland wanted his paintings to be self-referential and offer a purely visual experience.