Elmer Bischoff's Abstract Phases Explored in 2002 New York Exhibition
From October 29 to November 30, 2002, Salander-O’Reilly Galleries in New York showcased a collection of Elmer Bischoff's artwork, highlighting both his early and later abstract styles while excluding his figurative pieces. Bischoff's artistic journey commenced in 1947, where he drew inspiration from Clyfford Still and Mark Rothko at the California School of Fine Art. In 1952, he transitioned to figurative painting, becoming a notable figure in the Bay Area Figurative movement until its decline in 1972, after which he returned to abstraction. The exhibition included notable works such as Untitled (1948), Rocks (1950), #1 (1974), and #25 (1977), illustrating his artistic growth and distinctiveness, as detailed in Susan Landauer's 2001 monograph.
Key facts
- Exhibition held at Salander-O’Reilly Galleries in New York from October 29 to November 30, 2002
- Focused on Elmer Bischoff's early and late abstract periods, excluding figurative works
- Bischoff's career started in 1947, influenced by Clyfford Still and Mark Rothko
- He taught at the California School of Fine Art and referenced CSFA colleagues in early works
- Shifted to figurative painting in 1952 as part of the Bay Area Figurative movement with David Park and Richard Diebenkorn
- Returned to abstraction in 1972 after the figurative movement dissolved
- Untitled (1948) was inspired by Hassel Smith and noted for color passion by Bill Berkson
- Later works like #1 (1974) used acrylics and included subtle figurative references
Entities
Artists
- Elmer Bischoff
- Clyfford Still
- Mark Rothko
- David Park
- Richard Diebenkorn
- Hassel Smith
- Bill Berkson
- Susan Landauer
- Kandinsky
- Miró
Institutions
- Salander-O’Reilly Galleries
- California School of Fine Art
- Bay Area Figurative movement
Locations
- New York
- United States