Large Still Life 1966

Richard Diebenkorn made this painting, Large Still Life, most likely in the 1960’s, we don’t have the exact date for this work, and it looks like he used oil paint. I love how he puts things down as geometric shapes first, and then builds up a composition with colour and line. You can see that artmaking is a process, a constant adjustment of forms, tones, and shades. Look at the surface of the painting; the canvas is entirely covered with paint, giving the composition a dense, tactile quality. The paint isn't too thick, but it’s applied in layers, creating a depth of colour and texture. The rose-brown surface in the foreground provides a grounding element, while the abstract blue background adds a playful dimension, almost like wallpaper. Diebenkorn's still lifes remind me a little of Matisse, with their bold use of colour and flattened perspective. What both artists share is an interest in the conversation between representation and abstraction. I wonder what you see?