Painted canvas fragment c. 20th century

Editor: This is Barnett Newman's "Painted canvas fragment," housed here at Harvard Art Museums. It's a small piece, with bands of striking red and orange. What strikes me is how unfinished it seems. What do you make of this fragment? Curator: Its fragmentary nature offers a glimpse into the artist's process, a rebel against traditional art values and a statement of democratic ideals. It reflects the socio-political context of post-war America. What do you think about the impact of Abstract Expressionism at the time? Editor: I see. I guess I didn't think about that. It's interesting how even a fragment can carry so much weight. Curator: Indeed. By understanding the historical backdrop, we can grasp how Newman's work challenged and redefined art's role in society.