Helen Frankenthaler's Abstract Ambiguity Explored in Retrospective Tributes
A series of exhibitions and publications honor Helen Frankenthaler (1928–2011), whose work is described as 'invariably ambiguous' in the best tradition of abstract painting. Her 1960s and 1970s works are on view at Elkon and Loretta Howard galleries on the Upper East Side through December 14. An essay extracted from 'A Memoir of Creativity: abstract painting, politics and the media, 1956-2008' (iUniverse, 2009) discusses the author's theory of abstract art as 'multireferential' representation. A 2003 exhibition at Knoedler & Company (May 1–July 18) featured Frankenthaler's 'guiltlessly beautiful' pictures, challenging the 'cult of the ugly.' The painting 'Pink Lady' is analyzed for its layered imagery evoking an orchid and a human heart. The tributes coincide with the anniversary of her birth and death.
Key facts
- Helen Frankenthaler lived from December 12, 1928 to December 27, 2011.
- Works from the 1960s and 1970s are on view at Elkon and Loretta Howard galleries.
- The exhibitions run through December 14 on the Upper East Side.
- An essay from 'A Memoir of Creativity' (2009) discusses abstract art as multireferential.
- A 2003 exhibition at Knoedler & Company featured Frankenthaler's work.
- The painting 'Pink Lady' is described as suggesting an orchid and a human heart.
- Frankenthaler's work is characterized as 'invariably ambiguous.'
- The tributes are retrieved in memory of the artist.
Entities
Artists
- Helen Frankenthaler
- Franz Kline
Institutions
- Elkon Gallery
- Loretta Howard Gallery
- Knoedler & Company
- iUniverse
Locations
- Upper East Side
- New York
- United States
- 19 East 70th Street New York, NY 10021