Variables with Color 

Robert Goodnough created "Variables with Color," a work that invites us to consider the interplay between structure and freedom in abstract expressionism. Goodnough was part of a generation of artists working in the mid-20th century who grappled with the legacy of World War II and the burgeoning civil rights movement. "Variables with Color" consists of many colorful shards or particles in a variety of colors, creating a sense of movement and dispersal. The canvas can be seen as a reflection of the fragmented nature of identity and experience. It invites us to think about how individual elements come together to form a collective whole, mirroring the diverse communities that were seeking recognition and equality during this time. Goodnough once said that his paintings aimed to "explore the possibilities of color and form." It is an artwork that encourages emotional and personal investment, as viewers find themselves navigating the interplay between chaos and order. In the end, "Variables with Color" remains a testament to the power of art to engage with societal currents while remaining deeply personal.