Dragons 2004

Brice Marden's painting, Dragons, is an untitled work created in an unknown year with unknown materials. I'm struck by Marden's approach to mark-making here. The lines weave and tangle, creating a sense of depth and movement like the painting itself is breathing. Looking closely, you see how the paint is applied in layers, with some areas appearing more transparent than others. The reds and yellows seem to dance on the surface, while underneath, glimpses of white peek through, adding to the overall complexity. It's like Marden is building up the painting bit by bit, allowing each layer to inform the next. I wonder if he was inspired by Cy Twombly in this piece, with that beautiful playfulness, the way his colours swirl together. Ultimately, Dragons reminds me that art is an ongoing conversation, a constant exchange of ideas and influences across time, where ambiguity and multiple interpretations are not flaws, but rather, the essence of its beauty.